BY OLANREWAJU AGIRI
The management of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in Ibadan has launched a fan orientation initiative aimed at promoting good conduct and ensuring decorum, order, and peace during matchdays at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba. This initiative is spearheaded by the administration of Hon. Taiwo Lekan-Salami.
This was launched during their Match Day 9 encounter against Abia Warriors to move to the second position on the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table.games on Sunday by posting a number of daring, thought-provoking captions on flex boards throughout the stadium.
The messages, which promote discipline, sportsmanship, and respect, were intended to deter violent behavior, hooliganism, field encroachment, and other actions that could damage the reputation of the sport.
Among the inscriptions sighted before the NPFL match were “Respect the Referee, Respect the Badge. Great fans support with love, not violence. Throw Cheers, Not Objects. Our energy should lift the team, not harm the game.” All these captions were signed off with “Say no to violence.”
The program, which has received significant praise from spectators and sports stakeholders, is viewed as a commendable attempt to refocus fans and promote a culture of peace and respect at football stadiums.
According to club’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Bunmi Fadayomi, “the safety of people and property as well as the preservation of the round leather game, are still major priorities. In addition to these goals, the initiative aims to foster community engagement by encouraging dialogue between fans, players, and officials by creating a more inclusive environment, the program hope to inspire a new generation of supporters who uphold these values both on and off the field.”
It should be noted that Kano Pillars were sanctioned by league authorities just last week for disruptive supporter behaviour following their 1-1 draw with Shooting Stars. The recent campaign by the Ibadan-based club serves as a timely reminder that peace, tolerance, and respect must remain central to every football event.
