SWAN Ondo laments Sunshine Queens’ third straight relegation

—- Demands restructuring, player retention

By Dayo Johnson Akure

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ondo State chapter, has expressed concern over the repeated relegation of Sunshine Queens Football Club to the Nigeria Women Football League Championship for the third year running.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its congress in Akure, the association described the trend as “unacceptable” and called on the Ondo State Government and sports administrators to take urgent steps to reposition sports in the state.

The congress was presided over by the SWAN Chairman in the state, Segun Giwa and attended by members who deliberated extensively on sports development, athletes’ welfare, and strategies for improving the fortunes of sports in Ondo State.

The communiqué was signed by Chairman of the Drafting Committee, Bolu-Olu Esho, Secretary, Femi Atolagbe, member, Tunde Lawal, and e-signed by SWAN Secretary, Joseph Adesuyan.

SWAN urged the management of the Ondo State Football Agency, ODSFA, to immediately stabilise the technical crew of Sunshine Queens under Coach Tayo Onilude.

It also called for the strengthening of the club’s coaching and administrative structure, and the retention of core players who impressed during the team’s run to the semi-finals of the 2025 President Federation Cup.

According to the association, preserving the squad and improving the technical and administrative setup would enhance the team’s chances of making an immediate return to the elite women’s league.

The congress also appealed to the management of Sunshine Stars FC to commence early preparations for the new season to secure a swift return to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

Members commended the Sunshine Stars U-19 team for exceeding expectations in both the youth league and the 2025 President Federation Cup, where they defeated several NPFL clubs before reaching the Round of 16.

SWAN advised the club to preserve the U-19 side as a long-term investment for player development and revenue generation, and urged the technical crew to promote outstanding talents to the senior team.

The association called on the Ondo State Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to begin early preparations for the forthcoming National Sports Festival in Enugu.

It stressed that proper planning, adequate camping, and improved welfare for athletes and officials would boost the state’s performance on the medals table.

SWAN urged the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development and the General Manager of the Sports Council to prioritise athletes’ welfare during preparations and the competition.

The association also asked the state government to revive sporting activities by reactivating all sports associations through the reconstitution of dormant boards or strengthening existing leadership.

“Revitalising the various sports associations will promote grassroots sports development and increase Ondo State’s competitiveness in national competitions,” the communiqué stated.

SWAN also appealed for appropriate rewards for athletes and officials who have brought honour to Ondo State through outstanding performances at national and international events.