Shuaib and Falilat to Represent Nigeria, as Chelsea, Other Top Clubs Target KFA Talents- Bola Mogaji
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Governor AbdulRazaq’s Investment Yields Results as Kwara Athletes and KFA Stars Go Global
Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, has announced a wave of exciting developments in Kwara’s sports sector — including international call-ups for two of the state’s young athletes and growing interest from top European clubs in talents from the Kwara Football Academy (KFA).
Speaking during the 3rd Quarter Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing, organized by the Ministry of Communications in Ilorin, Coach Mogaji revealed that Chelsea FC, Brentford FC, and Belgian side Lueven have expressed strong interest in signing three promising KFA players — Abduljelil Kamaldeen (Chelsea, England), Uthman Tajudeen (Brentford, London), and Ifeanyi Ikechukwu (Lueven, Belgium).
He explained that the development marks another milestone in Kwara’s growing sports profile, noting that proceeds from the proposed transfers could contribute significantly to the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“Scouts from these clubs have already identified their preferred players, who are currently undergoing evaluation. This reflects the rising standard and credibility of the Kwara Football Academy,” Mogaji stated.
In another inspiring breakthrough, Mogaji announced that two young Kwara athletes — Shuaib Giwa and Falilat Abdulrazaq — have been selected to represent Nigeria in upcoming international competitions following their exceptional performances at national tournaments.
Shuaib Giwa, a 16-year-old squash sensation, will represent Nigeria at an international squash championship in Canada. Despite his young age, Shuaib has already beaten senior players in major national tournaments, including the prestigious Nigeria Squash Open held in Lagos, earning widespread recognition as one of the country’s brightest squash prospects.
Similarly, Falilat Abdulrazaq, a fast-rising cyclist, is set to represent Nigeria at an international cycling competition in South Africa. Falilat was one of Kwara’s standout athletes at the National Youth Games in Asaba, where she won two gold medals for the state — a performance that earned her national selection.
“Their past and present achievements have opened the doors for these two talented athletes to represent Nigeria on the global stage,” Mogaji said proudly, commending the Kwara State Government for supporting the athletes.
The Sports Commission Chairman also celebrated Kwara United FC’s recent victory in the Presidential Cup, which secured the club’s qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup, describing it as a testament to the steady progress of sports in the state.
He credited these achievements to the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, whom he described as “a passionate lover of sports whose investment continues to transform Kwara into a hub of sporting excellence.”
According to Mogaji, 16 Kwarans now occupy key positions across national sports federations — the first time in the state’s history — reflecting the governor’s emphasis on competence and youth empowerment.
He also disclosed that major infrastructural upgrades are ongoing at the George Innih Stadium Complex, including the construction of the first-of-its-kind eight-wing squash courts, while the Pa Ladipo Indoor Sports Hall nears completion after extensive remodeling.
“Sports in Kwara today is not just about competition; it’s about building a future — a future of opportunities, discipline, and global exposure for our youth,” Mogaji concluded.
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