The ancient city of Ibadan erupted in celebration over the weekend as the legendary Shooting Stars Sports Club (33C) secured qualification for the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup, ending a 27-year absence from the continental stage.
The Oluyole Warriors sealed their historic return after a stellar finish in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), rekindling memories of the club’s golden era as a powerhouse of African football.
Reacting to the feat, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, described the qualification as “a rebirth of football greatness in Ibadan and a moment of immense pride for the entire people of Oyo State.”
In a personally signed statement released to journalists in Ibadan, Senator Alli extended his warmest congratulations to the club’s management, technical crew, players and unwavering supporters for an achievement he termed “a remarkable triumph born out of resilience, discipline and sheer determination.
”For generations, Shooting Stars have personified pride, passion and excellence,” Senator Alli stated.
“This qualification is more than just a sporting victory; it is the restoration of a glorious legacy that has long united Ibadan and inspired football lovers across Nigeria.”
The lawmaker recalled that Shooting Stars are no strangers to continental glory, noting that the club made history in 1992 as the inaugural winners of the defunct CAF Cup; the direct predecessor to the current CAF Confederation Cup.
”They were the pioneers of African club football,” Alli remarked. “They helped build the prestige of continental competition and today, after nearly three decades, they are returning to the grand stage where they truly belong.”
Senator Alli highly commended the players’ fighting spirit throughout the demanding NPFL season, while praising the coaching staff and management for restoring tactical discipline, confidence and competitiveness to the squad.
He also paid a glowing tribute to the club’s famously loyal fan base.
”To the fans who never stopped believing, this victory belongs to you. Your unwavering loyalty kept the spirit of the Oluyole Warriors alive through the lean years,” the statement read.
Looking ahead, the APC chieftain highlighted the broader socioeconomic impact of the achievement, noting that hosting continental fixtures in Ibadan will stimulate local businesses, boost sports tourism and attract vital investment into Oyo State’s sports infrastructure.
He added that the feat would undoubtedly inspire a new generation of grassroots football talents across the state.
”As Shooting Stars prepare to fly Nigeria’s flag in Africa once again, I call on all stakeholders; including the government, corporate bodies, and the football community to rally wholeheartedly behind the club to ensure a spectacularly successful continental campaign,” Alli concluded.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most decorated football institutions, Shooting Stars last featured on the continent in 1999. Their historic comeback has ignited widespread excitement, with enthusiasts confident that the Oluyole Warriors are firmly on the path to reclaiming their status among Africa’s football elite.
