The Osun State Sports Council has dismissed allegations by the Osun Football Association (FA) accusing the state government of neglecting its football teams, Osun United and Osun Babes FC, describing the claims as misleading and a misrepresentation of facts.
In a statement issued by its management, the council said the FA’s position failed to reflect the reality of ongoing government efforts to support sports development in the state.
The council maintained that the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke has prioritised athlete welfare, noting that salaries are being paid promptly while inherited arrears, including half-salaries and pension obligations, are being cleared across the state workforce, including sports personnel.
According to the statement, the governor has also approved all necessary welfare packages to ensure the smooth participation of both teams in the 2025/2026 football season.
Highlighting ongoing interventions, the council pointed to the remodelling of Osogbo City Stadium, which it said is progressing steadily toward transforming the facility into a modern sporting arena.
It further noted that institutional reforms, including the establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission and a Sports Trust Fund, are aimed at ensuring sustainable funding and addressing longstanding administrative challenges in the sector.
The council argued that current league standings should not be interpreted as evidence of poor government support. It explained that the performances of Osun United, currently placed eighth in the Nigeria National League, and Osun Babes FC in the Nigeria Women Football League are influenced by technical and competitive factors best addressed by team management and the FA.
It described attempts to link on-field performance solely to alleged neglect as misleading, stressing that government has continued to provide logistics, kits, transportation, and approved welfare packages for the teams.
The statement also acknowledged the role of the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, who doubles as Commissioner for Sports, in promoting both grassroots and elite sports development.
While urging the FA to avoid what it described as politically coloured statements, the council called for stronger collaboration, advising the football body to focus on technical development and strategic support to improve team performance.
The council reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sports development, insisting that it has fulfilled its obligations and urging stakeholders to match that commitment with professionalism and effective technical input.
