In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Ogun State, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has thrown open the gates of the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, for football fans to watch the Nigeria Falconets take on Senegal’s Lionesses free of charge.

The encounter is the first leg of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, scheduled to take place on Saturday.

The Ogun State Government said the gesture aligns with the spirit of the state’s golden jubilee celebration, aimed at giving residents a sense of belonging while promoting sports development.

Originally billed for the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, the qualifier was relocated to Abeokuta following concerns over the poor condition of the Ibadan pitch.

Announcing the development on Friday, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, urged residents to turn out en masse to cheer the Falconets to victory.

Isiaka reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting women’s football and ensuring that national teams playing in Abeokuta receive the necessary backing to excel on the international stage.

“The Falconets’ match against Senegal is a crucial one, and the team needs all the support it can get,” he said. “With the gates thrown open, fans should seize this opportunity and stand solidly behind the team.”

He described the match as historic, noting that the Falconets have never missed qualification for a FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, stressing that the Ogun State Government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the team maintains that record.

“Abeokuta is the home of football, and we must show the world that Ogun State is a football-loving state,” Isiaka added.

According to him, the governor’s decision is part of activities marking the ongoing Ogun @50 celebrations, with sports identified as a key pillar of the I.S.E.Y.A agenda of the Abiodun administration.

He also advised fans to arrive early to secure seats and be part of what is expected to be an exciting encounter.

The second leg of the qualifier is scheduled to hold in Dakar, Senegal, on February 14.