The Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA) has commended Sunshine Stars FC U-19 for their impressive performances during the 2026 season, while reaffirming its commitment to youth development and the overall growth of football in the state.
The commendation came during a reception held in Akure to honour the U-19 team for their outstanding campaign in the National Youth League and their remarkable run to the quarter-finals of the President Federation Cup, where they earned widespread praise for their discipline, resilience, and technical quality.
Chairman of the ODSFA, Mr. Divine Ogbonnaya, described the young players and their coaching crew as worthy ambassadors of Ondo State football, noting that their achievements reflect the success of the agency’s youth development policies.
He specifically applauded Head Coach, Adenike Ayeni, for her tactical discipline and leadership, describing her as one of the most outstanding youth coaches in the country.
“Coach Nike has done very well. She has made herself and the entire state proud with her achievements. We are satisfied with her performance and the discipline she has instilled in the team,” Ogbonnaya said.
He also praised the players and backroom staff for their dedication throughout the season, urging them to remain focused as they progress in their football careers.
According to him, the achievements of the U-19 team signal a bright future for football development in Ondo State and demonstrate the effectiveness of continued investment in grassroots sports.
As part of the recognition package, the ODSFA chairman presented training kits and made cash donations to support and encourage the team ahead of future competitions.
The event was attended by stakeholders in the Ondo State football ecosystem, including officials of the Ondo State Football Association, supporters’ groups, journalists, and sports administrators.
In a related development, ODSFA also recently unveiled former Nigerian international, Duke Udi, as Technical Adviser of Sunshine Stars FC, alongside Banjo Adepoju as Head Coach, ahead of the 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.
The unveiling, which took place at the agency’s headquarters in Akure, was described as a strategic move to reposition the senior team for competitive success in the upcoming campaign.
Mr. Ogbonnaya expressed confidence in the new technical crew, urging them to remain focused and committed to rebuilding the team and restoring Sunshine Stars FC to the elite level of Nigerian football.
Responding, Coach Duke Udi expressed appreciation for the opportunity, promising to prioritise discipline, professionalism, and merit in team management, while assuring stakeholders of his commitment to achieving set objectives.
The ODSFA reiterated its readiness to provide the necessary support structure to ensure success across all levels of the club, as preparations intensify for the new season.
The events, according to the agency, underscore a renewed drive to strengthen both youth and senior football structures in Ondo State, with emphasis on excellence, discipline, and sustainable development.
