Osun United FC, fondly dubbed “Adeleke’s Gladiators,” are gearing up for their most crucial challenge yet — the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 playoffs — buoyed by fresh government support and renewed optimism for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League.

 

Football stakeholders converged at the Osogbo Township Stadium over the weekend to celebrate the team’s qualification for the Super 8 and to reinforce their support ahead of the promotional playoffs set to hold in Asaba from July 5 to 12, 2025.

 

Leading the charge of encouragement was Osun State Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Sports, Prince Kola Adewusi, who pledged the state’s full backing. Addressing players, coaches, and fans, Prince Adewusi promised enhanced welfare packages and swift resolution of any outstanding emoluments.

 

“The government is fully behind you,” the Deputy Governor said. “We will ensure your welfare is a top priority, and we are removing all administrative bottlenecks so you can focus on making Osun proud.”

 

In a morale-boosting surprise, Governor Sen. Dr. Ademola Adeleke phoned in during the meeting to personally congratulate the team. His words fired up the atmosphere.

 

“You have made Osun proud already by reaching the Super 8, but the journey is not over,” Governor Adeleke said. “Go to Asaba and bring Premier League football back to Osun.”

 

The governor’s message was met with applause and renewed determination from the players and supporters.

 

Also present at the rally was House Committee Chairman on Sports, Hon. Abiola Awoyeye, who committed to using his legislative role to drive more investment in Osun’s sports sector. He assured the team of his presence in Asaba to cheer them on.

 

“This is not just about promotion,” Hon. Awoyeye said. “It’s about building a legacy for sports development in Osun. I will be in Asaba to support every kick, every tackle.”

 

Team captain Mojeed, speaking on behalf of the players, thanked the state government for its timely support and vowed the team would repay the faith with a spirited performance.

 

Club Chairman Gbenga Ololade Oriowo lauded the government’s intervention, describing it as a morale booster that had already begun yielding results behind the scenes.

 

“With this support, we are more than ready. The players are fired up. The fans are united. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for,” Oriowo said.

 

The high-powered gathering included notable personalities such as the SSA on Football Matters, Hon. Kehinde Johnson, top officials from the Ministry of Sports, and representatives from the Osun State Sports Council — showcasing a united front in support of Osun United’s promotion quest.

 

With their sights set firmly on top-flight football, Adeleke’s Gladiators head into the NNL Super 8 playoffs in Asaba with a blend of confidence, talent, and government backing — determined to etch a new chapter in Osun’s football history.