Oyo Sports Commissioner Seeks Unity with SWAN, Unveils Busari as Pacesetter Queens’ Technical Adviser

…As Adegoke urges teamwork between the ministry and sports journalists, reaffirming commitment to the development of women’s football.

…As The Commissioner, alongside FA Chairman Oba Odeniran, stresses unity and support for the team ahead of their first NWFL season

The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, has called for unity and collaboration between the Ministry and members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Chapter, to foster the development of sports in the state.

Hon. Adegoke made the appeal on Monday during the official unveiling of the new Technical Adviser for Pacesetter Queens Football Club, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ibadan.

Addressing journalists and ministry officials at the ceremony, the Commissioner urged sports journalists to work hand in hand with the Ministry, emphasizing that mutual understanding and cooperation were essential for advancing sports in the state. She encouraged all stakeholders to “shelve their swords” and focus on collective growth and success.

During the ceremony, Hon. Adegoke formally announced Coach Akeem Busari, a former Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) coach, as the new Technical Adviser of Pacesetter Queens ahead of the 2025 Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) season.

She noted that Busari’s appointment was based on his proven experience, leadership qualities, and impressive track record in Nigerian football.

“The government is fully committed to supporting Pacesetter Queens and their technical crew as they embark on their debut season in the NWFL,” Adegoke assured.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Oyo State Football Association and the Alakinyele of Akinyele, Oba James Odeniran, commended the Oyo State Government for its continued investment in sports development, particularly in promoting women’s football through the Pacesetter Queens project.

The royal father described the establishment and proper management of the team as a step in the right direction, noting that women’s football has become a vital platform for youth empowerment and talent discovery across Nigeria.

Oba Odeniran assured the team of the Association’s full support, promising to work closely with the Ministry of Youth and Sports to ensure that the Pacesetter Queens become one of the most formidable and respected female football teams in the country.

In his remarks, Coach Akeem Busari expressed gratitude to the state government for the opportunity, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him.

He pledged to lead the team to greater heights, noting that his one-year contract would be focused on building a competitive and disciplined squad.

Busari also took the opportunity to introduce members of his backroom staff, who, he said, would work closely with him to achieve the team’s goals for the season.

The event was attended by executives and members of SWAN, Oyo State Chapter, as well as senior staff of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.