The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has officially authorized the return of competitive football to the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasinga, following the successful remediation of its playing surface. The Ibadan-based arena, which serves as the traditional fortress for Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), had previously faced a league-enforced suspension due to the deteriorating condition of the turf. League inspectors have now cleared the facility to host top-flight fixtures again, bringing an end to the club’s temporary relocation.
During the period of the stadium’s closure, the “Oluyole Warriors” were forced to navigate a grueling residency at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta. While the club expressed gratitude for the hospitality in Ogun State, the return to their home ground in the heart of Ibadan is expected to provide a significant psychological boost for the players and a much-needed logistical relief for the loyal supporters. The board of the NPFL confirmed that the facility now meets the minimum broadcasting and safety standards required for the current 2025/26 campaign.
“The Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, has lifted the ban on Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasinga, Ibadan.”
The timing of the reopening is critical for 3SC, who are currently reeling from a devastating 4-1 defeat at the hands of Plateau United in their previous outing. Head coach Gbenga Ogunbote will look to use the familiar surroundings of Adamasinga to reset the team’s momentum as they prepare to welcome regional rivals Kano Pillars for a Matchday 28 encounter this Sunday. The fixture represents a massive opportunity for Shooting Stars to climb back into the top half of the table and erase the memory of their recent defensive collapse.
Security and maintenance officials at the Lekan Salami Stadium have already begun final preparations for the influx of thousands of fans expected to witness the homecoming. For the Ibadan faithful, Sunday’s match against the “Sai Masu Gida” is more than just a league game; it signifies the return of a historic sporting institution to its spiritual home. With the turf now declared match-ready, the focus shifts entirely to the pitch as Shooting Stars fight to preserve their top-flight status and restore pride to the city.
