Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a ₦50 million support package for the Super Falcons ahead of their decisive second-leg 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Amazons of Benin Republic in Abeokuta, the state capital.

According to a Facebook post on Tuesday, Abiodun made the announcement when he received the female national team at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.

“We were delighted to receive the Super Falcons of Nigeria in our office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, ahead of their second-leg WAFCON 2026 qualifier against the Amazons of Benin Republic.

“In recognition of their inspiring performances and to further motivate them for the task ahead, we announced a support package of ₦50 million to the team,” Abiodun wrote.

He said the Falcons’ return to the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, was proof that the state’s investment in sports development was paying off.

“Their return to the MKO Abiola International Stadium is a validation that we are doing something right in Ogun State,” the governor said.

Abiodun also disclosed plans to transform the stadium environment into a world-class sports hub, with facilities such as a five-star hotel, cinema, and shopping complex.

“Beyond hosting matches, we are transforming the stadium environment with plans for a world-class sports hub, complete with a five-star hotel, cinema, shopping complex, and other facilities that will make Abeokuta a true sports and tourism destination,” he added.

The governor commended the Super Falcons for winning their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco, describing the team as a symbol of leadership, teamwork, and discipline.

“What they represent goes far beyond football — they embody leadership, teamwork, and discipline.

“Through their example, millions of young women are learning that excellence knows no gender, and that with hard work and unity, they too can break barriers and achieve greatness,” Abiodun said.

He assured the team of Ogun State’s continued support and expressed confidence that they would keep inspiring the next generation of Nigerian athletes.

“On behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun State, we assured the Super Falcons of our unwavering support.

“We believe that through their success, they will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders, athletes, and achievers. Ogun State stands firmly with them as they continue to make Nigeria proud,” Abiodun concluded.

The Super Falcons will face the Benin Amazons on Tuesday, at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, in the return leg of the WAFCON final qualifying round.

Nigeria holds a 2–0 aggregate advantage from the first leg played in Cotonou last Friday, with goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo.

Head coach, Justin Madugu has assured all that the Falcons will not take the return leg lightly as they seek to seal qualification for the 14th WAFCON, scheduled to hold in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

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The city of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is set to host one of Nigeria’s biggest golf events of the year as 297 golfers from across the country and beyond storm the Ilorin Golf Course for the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025, which tees off on Thursday.

The four-day championship, featuring both professional and amateur golfers, boasts a prize purse of ₦15 million and is expected to inject excitement and economic activity into the city.

Among the top names confirmed for the tournament are defending champion, Okoko Godwin, Ekpe Francis, Sunday Olopade, and Peter Kakasiaka, alongside a host of emerging stars eager to make their mark.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, the Captain of Ilorin Golf Club, Mr Jide Allen, said the ICMA Pro-Am has grown into one of Nigeria’s most anticipated golf events, combining sport, tourism, and youth development.

“This tournament has become a symbol of sporting excellence and community engagement. We’re proud to have Ilorin as a hub for golf in Nigeria,” Allen said.

He disclosed that professionals and Category One players will open play on Thursday, while 170 amateur golfers will hit the course on Saturday after a welcome cocktail scheduled for Friday night.

Allen also praised ICMA Professional Services, the event’s sponsor, for its consistent support through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

“Every Monday, we open the course to young players to encourage grassroots participation. This is part of our vision to grow the next generation of golfers,” he added.

On his part, Farouk Ismail, former captain of the Ilorin Golf Club and ICMA representative, disclosed that the event had attracted players from Cameroon and Ghana, adding international flair to the competition.

“This year’s tournament promises to be more competitive and colourful.

“ICMA’s commitment to this project reflects our belief that sports can drive social and economic development,” Ismail said.

Endorsed by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria, the tournament’s first edition, held last year, was hailed for its top-notch organisation and impact.

Organisers say this year’s edition will raise the bar even higher, cementing Ilorin’s place on Nigeria’s golfing map.

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