Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Lekan-Salami, has defended the appointment of head coach Salisu Yusuf, insisting he has no regrets over the decision despite the club’s recent struggles in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Speaking during a radio interview in Ibadan, the chairman addressed several issues surrounding the Oluyole Warriors, including the controversial club statement, the departure of former coach Nurudeen Aweroro, recruitment decisions and growing concerns among supporters, Sports247 gathered.
Lekan-Salami reaffirmed his confidence in Yusuf, describing the experienced tactician as an upgrade on his predecessor in terms of coaching credentials.
“I do not regret appointing Coach Salisu Yusuf. I would still choose him over and over again,” he declared.
The chairman confirmed that Yusuf is operating under a one-year contract and maintained that the club remains committed to supporting him.
He also addressed the coach’s recent post-match comment that his players “could not run,” explaining that the remark needed to be understood within its original context.
Lekan-Salami dismissed suggestions that Nurudeen Aweroro was dismissed, explaining that the former coach’s departure followed a mutual agreement.
“I called Aweroro and told him he could not take us to the next level we wanted. We both agreed to part ways,” he explained.
He also cleared Sporting Director Tobi Adepoju of responsibility for the decision, insisting that the official did not sack Aweroro.
The chairman stressed that the club’s achievements under the previous technical crew resulted from collective contributions.
“3SC’s success last season was a collective effort, not me or Aweroro,” he stated.
Addressing criticism of the club’s recent press release, particularly its fourth paragraph, Lekan-Salami confirmed that he authorised the statement.
He explained that its intention was to discourage violence and caution individuals allegedly encouraging unrest, rather than threaten genuine supporters.
The chairman warned that crowd disturbances could expose Shooting Stars to NPFL disciplinary sanctions.
He also cautioned against attempts by politicians to exploit the club’s poor results for personal advantage.
Despite the disagreement, Lekan-Salami praised the supporters, recalling their recognition as the league’s Best Fans last season. He assured fans of improved security arrangements during home matches.
On recruitment, the chairman maintained that relevant stakeholders were informed about transfer activities, adding that Yusuf recommended three or four players.
He also disclosed that the Oyo State Government had approved another team bus, although it had not yet been delivered.
With Shooting Stars seeking improved results, Lekan-Salami appealed for patience and encouraged supporters to attend the club’s next fixture against Ranchers Bees.
His message was one of continued confidence in the technical crew and renewed unity, insisting that the Oluyole Warriors can overcome their difficult period with the backing of their supporters.
 Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Lekan-Salami, has defended the appointment of head coach Salisu Yusuf, insisting he has no regrets over the decision despite the club’s recent struggles in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).){kind=link}