Oyo State has approved ₦110 million to host Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, ahead of their World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda.
The decision has been confirmed at the State Executive Council meeting on September 10, chaired by Acting Governor Bayo Lawal at the Agodi Secretariat in Ibadan.
Commissioner for Works, Abdulmojeed Mogbojubola, told journalists the funds will cover logistics, accommodation, feeding, and security during the Falconets’ stay in Ibadan.
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The team will face Rwanda in the return leg on September 27 at Lekan Salami Stadium, with the winner advancing to meet either Algeria or Senegal.
The initiative aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development, which emphasises sports development and youth empowerment as drivers of growth.
Officials believe the decision will boost morale, inspire local athletes, and position Ibadan as a major hub for Nigerian sporting events.
The Falconets, under coach Moses Aduku, have a strong history, competing in every U-20 Women’s World Cup since 2002 and reaching the Round of 16 in 2024.
Public reaction has been swift on X, with many praising the move as overdue support for women’s football, while others questioned the scale of spending.
This investment comes as women’s football in Nigeria enjoys renewed attention, following the Super Falcons’ 10th WAFCON title earlier this year.
Oyo authorities have urged residents to rally behind the Falconets, whose qualification push could secure Nigeria another appearance at the 2026 World Cup in Poland.
