The Oyo State government has unveiled Pacesetter Queens Football Club and officials, marking what has been described as a “redefining moment” for the sport in the state.
Speaking at the press briefing held at the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Secretariat, Ibadan, Honourable Wasilat Adegoke, praised the unwavering support of Governor Seyi Makinde, noting that his commitment to sports development and gender equality has been instrumental to the progress.
Accordingly to her, “we are here to announce a reawakening of our vision, a realignment of our values, and a rebranding of our identity as a female football club determined to break new grounds.”
“This gesture is a testimony to the importance of the Executive Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE attaches to this unique aspect of social life as an empowerment tool for the economic emancipation of our youth.”
The Commissioner described the Pacesetter Queens Football Club logo as a bold symbol of strength, unity, and aspiration designed to inspire not only the players but every young girl in Oyo State who dreams of a future in football.
She charged the newly employed officials and players with a passionate message, saying: “You are not just participating in football; you are shaping its future. Wear the jersey with pride, purpose, and the knowledge that you represent the entire soccer community in Oyo State,” she concluded.
Director of Sports Administration, Mrs. Adegoke Olubisi, warmly welcomed everyone to the official unveiling ceremony of the Pacesetter Queens Football Club.
She expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his commitment to sports development, especially for creating opportunities and supporting female footballers in the state.
She noted that without the governor’s approval and encouragement, the progress being celebrated today would not have been possible.
In his remarks, the Head Coach of the newly unveiled Pacesetter Queens Football Club, Coach Akinwunmi Obajimi Isogun said, football is more than just a sport; it is a tool for transformation.
I believe in the power of teamwork, discipline, and passion to bring about not just victories on the pitch, but growth off it. My mission is to build a competitive, confident, and committed team that embodies the true spirit of Oyo State a spirit of resilience, hard work, and ambition.
He said, I am fully aware of the challenges ahead. We are in a competitive landscape, but I do not fear challenges, I embrace them. My focus will be on talent development, technical discipline, physical conditioning, and above all, team chemistry. Every player will be given the opportunity to shine, and together we will write a new chapter for women’s football in Oyo State.
We would scout players across the geopolitical zones of Oyo State and also invite mature players to strengthen the team.
In their goodwill messages, Ex-International Footballer Mutiu Adepoju MON and the Chairman of the Oyo State Football Association, His Royal Highness Oba James Odeniran, described the unveiling of Pacesetter Queens FC as long overdue in Oyo State. They commended the first female Commissioner for her initiative and pledged their strong support for the club’s vision and goals.
They also noted that, with robust leadership and the clear vision of the present administration, the club is well-positioned to set new standards in Nigerian women’s football.
Coach Akinwunmi Obajimi to lead the technical crew, supported by First Assistant Coach Damilola Olaitan Badmus, a former player and CAF C License holder, and Second Assistant Coach Zaccheaus Aderoju.
The team also includes Physical Trainer Lateef Lukman, FIFA-badged Goalkeeper Trainer Foluso Ajayi, and Welfare Officer Miss Grace Towobola, who holds both CAF and UEFA B licenses.
Their collective expertise is expected to drive talent development and elevate the club’s performance and operations.
