The Super Falcons of Nigeria are set to battle the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon in a double-header international friendly scheduled to take place in Ogun State, following a strategic collaboration between the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the state government.
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, who announced the development, said the matches are part of the federation’s broader efforts to decentralise high-level football and promote a thriving sports economy through stronger partnerships with state governments.
The first match will be held on Saturday, May 31, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, while the return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, at the upgraded MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.
Gusau announced during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the Government House in Abeokuta. He explained that Ogun State was selected due to its rising profile in Nigerian sports, its quality infrastructure, and a consistent track record of successfully hosting major sporting events.
“This partnership aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which emphasises building a sustainable sports economy,” Gusau said. “These matches won’t only offer fans a chance to witness elite women’s football live but will also stimulate local economic activity and further sports development in Ogun.”
In addition to the Super Falcons friendlies, Gusau also revealed that Ogun State has secured the hosting rights for the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B U-17 Championship in September. The regional tournament, which serves as qualifiers for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, will feature teams from Ghana, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Niger, Togo, Benin Republic, and Nigeria.
Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed gratitude to the NFF for trusting Ogun with the hosting duties and reaffirmed his government’s dedication to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and economic growth.
“Ogun is ready to become a major sporting hub in Nigeria,” the governor stated. “Besides hosting the Falcons and the WAFU U-17 tournament, we are also set to welcome athletes for the All-Africa U-18 and U-20 Athletics Championships in July. Our goal is to build a sports-driven economy.”
Abiodun also celebrated Remo Stars FC for their recent Nigeria Premier Football League title triumph and pledged continued support for state-owned Gateway FC as it aims to return to Nigeria’s top football ranks.
The friendly matches and upcoming tournaments are expected to boost tourism and reinforce Ogun State’s growing reputation as a centre for sports excellence in Nigeria.
