The Federal Government has approved a wide-ranging sports infrastructure development programme across the country, including a major rehabilitation of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja as part of efforts to restore Nigeria’s sporting facilities to international standards.
The approvals were ratified during a meeting of the National Sports Commission Tenders Board under the Federal Government’s broader plan to use sports as a tool for youth empowerment and economic growth.
At the centre of the projects is the complete overhaul of the Abuja national stadium, whose poor condition in recent years has limited its use for major international matches involving Nigeria’s national teams.
The rehabilitation will include the reconstruction of the main pitch, refurbishment of the tartan tracks, upgrades to dressing rooms, the media centre, VIP and corporate suites, as well as improvements to public address systems, security infrastructure, cooling systems and the stadium roof membrane.
The government also approved the establishment of a High Performance Centre within the Abuja complex, rehabilitation of the swimming pool at Package B, construction of two additional training pitches, and the conversion of the athletes’ hostel into a hotel facility aimed at generating revenue.
Other approved facilities include an anti-doping laboratory, upgraded sports medical centre, modern floodlights, electronic advertising boards, pitch protection systems and Video Assistant Referee technology.
Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, described the projects as a major step towards reviving sports development in the country.
“These projects represent a bold step towards restoring Nigeria’s sporting glory and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations,” Dikko said.
He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had also approved the creation of a National Sports Infrastructure Development Bond to provide sustainable funding for sports facilities across the country.
NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade said the initiative would strengthen talent development and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global sports.
The Federal Government also approved support for states hosting the next three editions of the National Sports Festival, with Enugu State set to receive funding for an Olympic-size swimming pool, upgraded indoor sports hall and rehabilitated athletes’ hostels.
In addition, sports centres will be developed in 15 tertiary institutions nationwide, while 20 mini stadiums are to be constructed in communities across the country.
The government also confirmed that redevelopment projects remain ongoing at the National Stadium Lagos, the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, the Ahmadu Bello Stadium and the Bichi Stadium in Kano State.
