Bariga Stars FC head coach, Babajide Oguntuase, has set an ambitious target for the fast-rising Lagos-based side.
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The former Nigeria Youth international declared the club’s intention to reach the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) within the next two years.
Oguntuase who once featured for Scotland 89, is currently spearheading a project that, despite being barely three years old, is already gaining momentum in the Nationwide League One (NLO).
Speaking exclusively with Sports247 just before their 2-0 win over Okaka FC last Saturday at Alade Stadium, Lagos, the coach revealed that the club’s rapid growth is no accident but the result of deliberate recruitment, strong backing, and a clear vision.
“We are still a very young team—just about six months together in terms of this current squad,” Oguntuase explained.
“We scouted players locally and also brought in some talents from outside to strengthen the group. The response has been fantastic.”
Clear Pathway: NLO → NNL → NPFL
Bariga Stars are currently competing in the NLO, Nigeria’s third-tier league, but their ambitions stretch far beyond.
Oguntuase made it clear that securing promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) is the immediate target, with the NPFL firmly in sight thereafter.
“Our goal is simple—qualify for the NNL. Playing in the NNL gives the team the exposure we need,” he said.
“From there, the next step is the NPFL. We are working seriously towards that.”
He acknowledged that further squad strengthening will be necessary once they reach the second tier but insists the foundation is already solid.
Strong Backing Fuelling the Dream
A major driving force behind the club’s progress is the unwavering support from its president, Alabi David, a former chairman of Bariga Local Government.
Oguntuase praised the club’s leadership for creating a professional environment that continues to motivate the players.
“The support has been massive. This is the third time he’s bought boots for the players, and we’ve had multiple sets of jerseys provided,” he revealed.
“He even accommodated the team in a top hotel in Ikorodu. For a grassroots team, that’s huge.”
That level of investment, according to the coach, has translated directly into performances on the pitch.
“When players see this kind of commitment, they become hungry. They want to repay that support with results.”
Strong Start, Defining Clash Ahead
Bariga Stars have backed up their ambitions with results, winning their opening two matches in the current NLO campaign—scoring four goals and keeping two clean sheets.
Their next fixture, however, presents their biggest test yet.
They face table-toppers Hephzibah FC, this Saturday, who recently delivered a stunning 7-0 demolition of Alim City—the same side Bariga comfortably beat 2-0.
The clash is expected to be decisive in determining the winner of the Alade Stadium Centre 2 group in the 2026 NLO season, with the group winner advancing to the Nigeria National League playoffs.
With momentum, belief, and growing support behind them, Bariga Stars are no longer just a grassroots side—they are a club with a clear roadmap and the ambition to rise through Nigeria’s football pyramid.
