“WE’RE RESTRUCTURING FOR GLORY ”: NEW 3SC CHAIRMAN OUTLINES VISION TWO WEEKS INTO TENURE

By Oluseyi Adedire

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TWO WEEKS AFTER APPOINTMENT

I always knew Shooting Stars was an institution, but I never realized how deeply it connects with the lives of so many people, not just in Nigeria, but across the diaspora. The passion surrounding this club is extraordinary. These past two weeks have been challenging—football is life here, and people engage with it emotionally. I can assure our fans that better days lie ahead. This is the beginning of a new era, and several changes will soon unfold to support the growth and development of Shooting Stars.

WHAT NEXT?

The government believes it’s time to chart a new course. I was appointed chairman to help implement this vision. This is home for me, and while we are committed to maintaining the club’s legacy, we are also focused on delivering results on and off the pitch. Restructuring has already begun—just two hours ago, we formally disengaged the former coaching crew and general manager.

We are in the process of appointing a new technical team and have brought on board a seasoned administrator as Chief Operations Officer. We’re also considering the addition of a Sporting Director. We understand time is of the essence with the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) 2025/26 season kicking off on August 22. We plan to participate in two upcoming pre-season tournaments. This is a full-time commitment, and we are confident that with the work underway, we will achieve the results that fans and the people of Oyo State are hoping for.

WHO WILL BE THE NEW COACH OF SHOOTING STARS?

There is strong enthusiasm among coaches and players alike to be part of Shooting Stars, which works in our favor. Many see it as a great honor to join the club. We are currently evaluating competencies and cultural fit to ensure there is no disconnect. The announcement will come very soon—possibly within 48 hours—as we finalize our decision.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING DIFFERENTLY?

There are several strategic shifts underway. One major area is media. We’ve completely restructured the club’s media team and are introducing a fresh setup aligned with our new media strategy.

Another key area is fan engagement. Supporters want results, and we are working tirelessly to meet expectations. Football is more than just what happens on the pitch—it also involves strategic and political considerations.

We’re focusing on player welfare, building a strong team, and achieving results that will make the Governor and the people of Oyo State proud. With God on our side, we believe success is within reach.

DISCUSSIONS WITH NPFL CHAIRMAN, HON. GBENGA ELEGBELEYE

Shortly after my appointment, I identified the key stakeholders in the league. I reached out to Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, who shared that Kano Pillars General Manager, Ahmed Musa, had recently visited him.

As part of effective administration, it is important we maintain regular communication with league authorities. I shared the Oyo State Government’s vision, and our discussion was productive. Hon. Elegbeleye is a man of integrity, and I hold him in high regard.

THE NAME LEKAN SALAMI AND FAMILY CONNECTION

Upon receiving the Governor’s mandate, I outlined two primary objectives: to win the league and qualify for the CAF Champions League, and to ensure that official home and away replica jerseys are made available to fans.

We are also developing the business arm of the club. The goal is to transform our household name into tangible economic value through merchandise and branded souvenirs.

The name Lekan Salami is deeply connected to the identity of Shooting Stars. My late father was a passionate supporter of the club, and the government honored his legacy by naming the stadium after him. I now have the opportunity to build on that legacy and leave a positive impact of my own.