NPFL: Shooting Stars dismiss rumors of relocation from Ibadan following pitch concerns

The management of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) has dismissed speculation that the league body plans to relocate the club from Ibadan due to concerns over the condition of the Lekan Salami Stadium pitch.

​The NPFL board formally communicated these concerns in a letter signed by Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, who expressed dissatisfaction with the turf’s current state.

 

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​However, the chairman of the Oluyole Warriors, Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, assured supporters that 3SC will continue to play in Ibadan. He stressed that the club has taken proactive steps to assist the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports and the State Sports Council in putting the pitch in order.

​According to the Chairman, the focus has been on addressing key challenges, specifically the inadequate water supply required for proper maintenance.

“We do not have a home match for about two weeks, and all other activities at the stadium have been suspended. This gives us enough time to restore the pitch to a lush green condition.

The major challenge has been water supply, and we have stepped in to complement the efforts of the agencies in charge.”

He added that the joint intervention aims not only at immediate repairs but also at ensuring sustainable maintenance in line with league requirements.

​Previously, due to the poor state of the Lekan Salami Stadium, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) requested a venue change from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for their 2026 Women’s U-20 World Cup qualifier against Senegal.