Shooting Stars SC have mutually parted ways with head coach Nurudeen Aweroro, team manager Tammy Tamuno, and assistant coach Shakiru Lawal with immediate effect, the Ibadan-based club announced on the eve of the new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
Abrupt Departure Shakes Oluyole Warriors
The club confirmed the development in an official statement, describing the departure as a mutual agreement following discussions between the club and the affected members of the technical team. However, the statement did not disclose specific reasons behind the decision, though sources indicate lingering issues between Aweroro and some influential members of the club's board contributed to the sudden change.
"We have reached a mutual agreement with Head Coach Nurudeen Aweroro, Team Manager Tammy Tamuno and Assistant Coach Shakiru Lawal to bring their respective contracts with the Club to an end, with immediate effect," the club stated. "The decision follows discussions between the Club and the affected members of the technical team, with both parties agreeing to part ways amicably."
Historic Season and Continental Qualification
Aweroro was appointed Shooting Stars head coach in July 2025 and oversaw one of the club's most significant campaigns in recent years. The Oluyole Warriors finished third in the 2025/26 NPFL season, securing a place in the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in 27 years.
"Shooting Stars appreciates Nurudeen Aweroro, Tammy Tamuno and Shakiru Lawal for their commitment, professionalism and contributions to the Club during their respective periods of service," the statement added. "The Club particularly acknowledges their efforts in helping Shooting Stars achieve a third-place finish in the 2025/26 NPFL season and secure a continental ticket."
Timing Raises Eyebrows
The timing of the departure has added to the surprise, coming just 24 hours after Shooting Stars suffered a 3-0 friendly defeat to Ikorodu City and on the eve of their participation in the Value Jet Cup pre-season tournament.
In the interim, the club has directed remaining assistant coaches to take charge of the technical department. "In the interim, the other Assistant Coaches have been directed to take charge of the affairs of the Technical Department pending the appointment and announcement of a substantive Head Coach. The Club will communicate further developments in due course," the statement concluded.
The club wished all three officials success in their future careers, but the Oluyole Warriors now must begin the new campaign without the coach who guided them back to continental football.
