In a historic gesture of restitution and honour, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has officially approved the allocation of land to members of the legendary 1998 Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) squad—fulfilling a promise made more than two decades ago by a past military administration.
The announcement marks the end of a 26-year delay following the team’s remarkable 1998 season, during which they claimed the Nigerian Premier League title and the West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup. The latter remains Nigeria’s only continental club title to date.
Back in 1998, the then-Military Administrator of Oyo State, Compol Amen Oyakhire, pledged a reward of ₦1 million and a plot of land to each player and official. While the cash was reportedly disbursed, the land never materialised—until now.
Governor Makinde, who has consistently positioned his administration as one committed to fairness and equity, revisited the matter after learning of the longstanding omission.
Governor Makinde of Oyo State with 3SC players. Photo Credit: X
Upon investigation, he approved the allocation of plots of land to the deserving players and staff.
The team, led in 1998 by the late Chairman Bode Oyewole, remains one of the most iconic sides in Nigerian club football history; their back-to-back triumphs captivated fans across the nation and cemented their legacy.
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Among the 25 beneficiaries of the long-overdue gesture are team captain Sunday Adu, former internationals like Eric Ejiofor and Andrew Aihkomogbe, and late members such as Dimeji Adenekan, Mojeed Azees, Pius Daniel, and Coach Jossy Ladipo.
The full list of recipients includes:
Sunday Adu (Captain), Andrew Aihkomogbe, Shanka Ugwah, Eric Ejiofor, Late Dimeji Adenekan, Niyi Elegbede, Samuel Yamta, John Benson, Leye Akinde, Late Mojeed Azees, Late Pius Daniel, Rafiu Salaudeen, Bauldwin Bazuaye, Golden Ajeboh, Sunday Ilevbare, Allain Njoh Njoh, Peter Obanor, Ochuko Otos, Shobayo Adesina, Kazeem Tijani, Kola Ademola, Friday Christopher, Late Coach Jossy Ladipo, Late Chairman Bode Oyewole, and Barr. Owolabi Salami.
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The state’s Ministry of Lands and Urban Development will oversee the allocations and issue Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to all beneficiaries.
Reacting to the development, surviving members and families of the late heroes expressed deep gratitude to Governor Makinde, hailing the gesture as a long-awaited vindication of their historic achievement
