By Kanu Samuel
The Ondo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called for immediate action to revive the fortunes of Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens, urging their managements to begin preparations for the new season without delay in a bid to secure an immediate return to the top flight.
The call formed part of a nine-point communiqué issued at the end of the association’s congress held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Press Centre in Alagbaka, Akure, where members deliberated on sports development, athletes’ welfare and the future of football in the state.
The congress expressed disappointment over the relegation of Sunshine Queens to the Nigeria Women Football League Championship for the third time, describing the development as unacceptable.
It urged the management of the Ondo State Football Agency to retain the technical crew led by Tayo Onilude following the team’s impressive run to the semi-finals of the 2025 President Federation Cup.
The association also called for the strengthening of the coaching set-up with competent administrative and backroom staff and appealed for the retention of the team’s core players to aid a swift return to the Nigeria Women Football League.
While commending Sunshine Queens for their Federation Cup campaign despite their league struggles, the congress also praised the performances of the Sunshine Stars U-19 side, which impressed in both league and cup competitions by eliminating several Nigeria Premier Football League clubs before reaching the Round of 16.
SWAN urged the management of Sunshine Stars to preserve the youth team and promote outstanding players to the senior squad, arguing that continuity would enhance the club’s future competitiveness and create economic value through player development.
The association also turned its attention to preparations for the next National Sports Festival in Enugu, calling on the Ondo State Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to begin planning early to improve the state’s performance.
It further appealed to the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development and the General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council to prioritise the welfare of athletes and officials throughout the preparation period and during the competition.
The congress also urged the state government to revitalise sports development by reactivating all sports associations through the reconstitution of their boards where necessary or by strengthening existing leadership structures.
It also called on the government to reward athletes and officials who have distinguished themselves by bringing honour to Ondo State through outstanding performances at national and international competitions.
The communiqué was issued by a drafting committee chaired by Bolu-Olu Esho, with Femi Atolagbe serving as secretary and Tunde Lawal as a member, and was endorsed by the SWAN Ondo State secretary, Joseph Adesuyan.
+ There are no comments
Add yours