After 27 years, Shooting Stars Sports Club has secured qualification for a CAF continental tournament, a milestone that reflects resilience, sacrifice, and the unwavering support of their loyal fans, stakeholders, and the good people of Oyo State.
In a statement, the club said the feat would have been a moment of celebration for the entire football family, but the heartbreaking reports of the abduction of school children and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have tempered the joy.
“At times like this, football reminds us that beyond the game, we are one people and one community,” the club said.
“Shooting Stars Sports Club humbly dedicates this achievement to the innocent children and teachers currently in captivity, while offering heartfelt prayers for their safe and immediate return to their families and loved ones.
“To the affected families and communities, we stand with you in this difficult moment. The entire Shooting Stars family shares in your pain, hope, and prayers.
“May this painful situation end swiftly with healing, comfort, and joyful reunions,” the club added.
The qualification marks a significant return to continental competition for the Ibadan-based club, which last featured in a CAF tournament in 1999. The team's performance throughout the season has been commendable, earning them a spot among Africa's elite clubs.
However, the joy of this achievement is overshadowed by the tragic incident in Orire Local Government Area, where armed men abducted school children and teachers. The club expressed solidarity with the affected families and called for urgent action to secure the release of the captives.
Shooting Stars management reiterated their commitment to using football as a platform for unity and social impact, urging the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
