In a major breakthrough for women’s football in Oyo State, Pacesetter Queens have secured a historic promotion to the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) for the 2025/26 season — marking their first-ever appearance in Nigeria’s elite women’s football division.
The Oyo State-owned club achieved this feat after successfully acquiring the league slot of Benue Queens, a move that underscores the state government’s growing commitment to developing women’s sports and strengthening its football structure.
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Confirming the development, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke, described the promotion as a milestone in the state’s sports renaissance, noting that Pacesetter Queens will now serve as the official women’s team of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC).
“This is a new dawn for women’s football in Oyo State. Pacesetter Queens will complement the structure of 3SC and provide a pathway for young female footballers to showcase their talent at the highest level,” Adegoke stated.
The promotion elevates Oyo State’s profile in Nigerian football, as the South-West region now boasts seven representatives in the NWFL: Robo Queens and Dannaz Ladies (Lagos), Remo Stars Ladies and Castmog Ladies (Ogun), Sunshine Queens (Ondo), Osun Babes (Osun), and the newly promoted Pacesetter Queens (Oyo).
The NWFL board is expected to officially unveil the kickoff date and fixtures for the 2025/26 season during its Annual General Assembly scheduled for Tuesday, October 29, 2025, in Port Harcourt.
With this milestone, Pacesetter Queens are poised to write a new chapter in Oyo State’s football history — one that promises to inspire a new generation of female athletes across the region.
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