AKURE, Nigeria – August 8, 2025 – In a decisive move aimed at breathing new life into state football, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated a new Ondo State Football Agency Management Committee to oversee the affairs of the Sunshine Stars, Sunshine Queens, and the Sunshine Stars Under-19 team.
The Governor’s decision follows a turbulent season for Ondo’s flagship men’s club, Sunshine Stars, who were relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a disappointing campaign. The women’s side, Sunshine Queens, also struggled to maintain competitive momentum, as they have been relegated from the NWFL for the past two years.
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The newly constituted committee features a blend of sports management professionals, marketing experts, and representatives from the state’s football ecosystem. Members include:
- Divine Ogbonnaya – General Manager
- Segun Joseph
- Awosakin Iloyomade – Football Association Representative
- Iyabo Ajanaku
- Dapo Ajibade – Marketing Consultant
By placing the committee directly under his office, Governor Aiyedatiwa has signaled the urgency and importance of the mission — to restore Ondo State’s football pride and return its clubs to the country’s top leagues.
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Governor Aiyedatiwa has tasked the committee with conducting a comprehensive review of the challenges facing the clubs, ranging from technical performance to financial stability and fan engagement. The aim is to reverse their downward trajectory and set them on a clear path to success.
“We must bring back the winning spirit. Our clubs represent the pride of Ondo State, and we will provide the structure and support they need to thrive again,” the Governor affirmed.
The relegation of Sunshine Stars has left a void in the NPFL, where the club has been a consistent competitor for over a decade. Now preparing for life in the Nigeria National League (NNL), the big question remains — can this management shake-up deliver an immediate return to the top flight, or will it take a longer rebuilding process?
The Sunshine Queens, who suffered relegation two seasons ago, are also in urgent need of a return to the Nigeria Women’s Football League. Beyond securing promotion, the team must set its sights on competing for a Super 6 qualification spot — a stage they last reached four seasons ago.
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Football enthusiasts in Ondo State and beyond will be watching closely as the new committee takes charge. Whether the turnaround will be quick or gradual, one thing is certain — this is a new chapter for Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens.
