The chairman of the Ibadan Football Council (IFC), Rotimi Alli, has congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the management of 3SC on the club’s return to continental competition.

Mr Alli acknowledged the state governor’s spirited efforts in a statement he signed and made available in Ibadan on Monday.

He praised Mr Makinde for renovating the Lekan Salami Stadium to international standards, increasing the team’s monthly subvention, and positioning the club directly under his office.

“This culminated in the victory being celebrated now,” he said.

He also commended the club’s management board, headed by Taiwo Lekan-Salami.

He described Mr Lekan-Salami as an astute football administrator who demonstrated that with focus, dedication and meticulous planning, nothing was impossible.

“These are the factors he used to restore Shooting Stars Sports Club to its rightful place on the African soccer stage within one year of his appointment,” he said.

He said Mr Lekan-Salami rekindled the fire that made 3SC the first team to win Nigeria’s first continental trophy and a household name in African football of the 70s, 80s and 90s.

Mr Alli commended the players, technical crew, and the supporters and fans for their commitment, devotion and patience.

He charged the club to go on and conquer Africa again for the soccer-loving people of Ibadan and the governor.

According to him, both the people and the governor are rooting for and standing solidly behind them.

3SC finished the 2025/26 Nigeria Professional Football League season in third position, sealing a long-awaited return to the African stage.

After nearly three decades away from continental club football, supporters can once again look forward to hearing the name of 3SC mentioned among Africa’s competing clubs.