Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making the state a leading destination for both local and international sporting competitions, following the successful hosting of the international women’s football friendly between Nigeria and Cameroon at the renovated MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the Super Falcons secured a convincing 2-0 victory over the Lionesses of Cameroon, Governor Abiodun described the match as a landmark event and a validation of Ogun’s growing reputation in the national sports arena. He noted that the state is fully ready to host more international events, revealing that the stadium will next welcome the U-18 and U-20 African Athletics Championships as well as the WAFU regional football competitions in the coming months.
The governor emphasised that his administration’s focus goes beyond infrastructure and aesthetics, stating that sports serve a greater purpose in fostering national unity, empowering youth, and boosting the local economy. “This is only the beginning,” he declared. “Our vision is clear — we are deliberately positioning Ogun as a hub of sporting excellence. We do not want to be known solely for our industrial prowess or educational achievements; we want to be a gateway to sports and tourism in Nigeria.”
He described the upgraded MKO Abiola Stadium not just as a sporting facility but as a symbol of inclusiveness and unity for Nigerians across all backgrounds. “In this country, nothing unites us quite like sports,” he said. “For 90 minutes, there are no tribes, no religious lines, no political affiliations — we are simply Nigerians. That’s the power of sports, and we intend to use that to foster harmony in Ogun and beyond.”
In recognition of the efforts and performances of both teams, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced a financial reward of N30 million. According to the breakdown, the Super Falcons received N20 million, while the visiting Lionesses of Cameroon were awarded N10 million. The gesture, which was initiated by Governor Abiodun, was praised by the NFF as timely and morale-boosting.
NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, expressed appreciation to the governor, describing the cash reward as not only a financial incentive but also a psychological boost that will inspire stronger performances from the athletes going forward. “This kind of encouragement from government officials helps to propel our teams to greater heights. It was not just about winning — it was about celebrating excellence, commitment, and sportsmanship,” Sanusi remarked.
Governor Abiodun also used the occasion to highlight the state’s successful track record in hosting large-scale events, recalling the recent 22nd National Sports Festival as another example of Ogun’s preparedness and capability. He assured stakeholders that the government would continue to invest in sports infrastructure and programmes to discover, develop and celebrate sporting talents across all local governments in the state.
With a renewed sense of ambition and the visible success of recent sporting engagements, Ogun appears set to entrench its position as one of Nigeria’s top destinations for elite sports and talent development.
