New Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) signing, Johnmark Shirsha Atule, has declared his readiness to hit the ground running after receiving a rousing welcome from the club’s management, teammates and supporters.
The attacking midfielder joined the ‘Oluyole Warriors’ from Kwara United on a two-year deal, with the prospect of continental football providing an added incentive for the 22-year-old.
Atule, a former junior international, first caught the eye on the international stage when he represented Nigeria at the 2018 Africa Youth Games in Algeria.
His journey to the professional ranks, however, was far from straightforward.
After overcoming setbacks early in his career, the DreamFoot Football Academy Makurdi graduate eventually secured his first professional contract with Lobi Stars ahead of the 2023/2024 season.
He impressed in his debut campaign before moving to Kwara United in 2025, where he featured in the NPFL and CAF Confederation Cup.
The Oluyole Warriors’ qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup proved a major attraction for a player eager to test himself on the continental stage.
3SC finished third in the 2026 NPFL season to secure Nigeria’s ticket to next season’s second-tier CAF club competition.
Following his unveiling at the historic Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Atule took to Facebook to express his appreciation to the club for the warm reception.
The midfielder described his move to 3SC as an honour and promised to give his best as the club prepares for both domestic and continental challenges.
‘I am truly honoured and grateful to join 3SC. Thank you to the management, coaching staff, teammates, and the amazing fans for welcoming me into this great club.
‘It is a privilege to wear this badge, and I promise to give my all on and off the pitch. I look forward to contributing to the team’s success and creating unforgettable moments together.
‘Thank you for this opportunity. Up Shooting Stars SC,’ he wrote.