Hon. Kunle Soname is not just a businessman; he’s a revolutionary figure in Nigerian sports, particularly football. Hailing from Ikenne Remo, Ogun State, Soname has established himself as a powerhouse in both the local and international football scene. As the owner of three football clubs in Nigeria and one in Portugal, his influence and contributions to the development of the game are unmatched.
The Only Football CEO with Three Clubs in Nigeria
Kunle Soname is the only surviving football CEO in Nigeria, with three prominent clubs under his belt:
1. Remo Stars SC
2. Remo Stars Ladies
3. Beyond Limits Football Academy (FA)
These clubs have made a name for themselves, with Beyond Limits FA producing nine players who recently signed deals with international clubs after the conclusion of the 2023/2024 football season. This achievement not only showcases the talent Soname has nurtured but also highlights his commitment to elevating Nigerian football to the global stage.
International Expansion: CD Feirense
Expanding beyond Nigeria’s borders, Soname is also the proud owner of CD Feirense, a Portuguese football club. His ownership of a European team underscores his ambition and his belief in creating a seamless pipeline for Nigerian players to break into the international scene.
Beyond Football: Bet9ja and ValueJet Airline
Soname’s business acumen extends beyond football. He owns Bet9ja, one of the biggest sports betting companies in Nigeria. Additionally, he owns ValueJet Airline, a private airline, further solidifying his status as a versatile entrepreneur who excels in multiple industries.
The Sky Blue Stars Stadium: A Model for Football Infrastructure
One of the most remarkable aspects of Soname’s legacy is the development of the Sky Blue Stars Stadium, home to Remo Stars SC. The stadium boasts state-of-the-art facilities that are unmatched in Nigeria, making it the only club in the country with three standard training pitches and a main pitch.
Some of the standout features include:
• A hotel for visiting teams and officials
• Housing facilities for the football academy
• A big restaurant for players and guests
• A well-equipped clinic and gym
• Tennis and basketball courts for additional training and recreation
• Hostels for the academy players, ensuring they have a comfortable living space while honing their skills.
The stadium’s infrastructure was approved by CAF in 2022 to host international matches, a testament to its world-class standards.
A Hub for Football Development
Remo Stars Sports Complex is not just a football stadium; it’s a comprehensive sports complex designed to foster the development of young talent. The complex houses:
• 56 rooms for both junior and senior players, with the capacity to accommodate 112 footballers
• Semi-detached blocks for coaches, providing them with comfortable accommodation
• A restaurant serving players and officials
• An administrative block with offices, conference rooms, classrooms, and reception areas for professional training and team meetings
Soname’s investment in these facilities reflects his long-term vision for football in Nigeria. His clubs, especially Remo Stars SC, are known for prioritizing first-class infrastructure, positioning them as the benchmark for other clubs in the Nigerian league.
A Lasting Legacy
Hon. Kunle Soname’s contributions to Nigerian football are unparalleled. His dedication to developing football in Nigeria through infrastructure, talent development, and international partnerships is second to none. He is truly an IDÁN GANGAN, a visionary who understands business and the power of sport.
As Remo Stars SC continues to rise in prominence, both locally and internationally, it’s clear that Soname’s impact on football in Nigeria will be felt for generations to come.
God bless Mr. Kunle Soname.
