The Federal Government has approved a nationwide sports infrastructure upgrade, with the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja set for a major renovation aimed at restoring Nigeria’s sporting facilities to international standards.
The approval was announced by the National Sports Commission after its Tenders Board meeting, where several projects were cleared as part of plans to boost sports development, youth engagement, and economic growth.
A major part of the project is the rehabilitation of the Abuja stadium pitch, which has been in poor condition in recent years. The main bowl will also undergo upgrades, including repairs to the tartan tracks, dressing rooms, media centre, VIP areas, security systems, public address systems, cooling facilities, and roof membrane.
The Abuja stadium complex will also get a new High Performance Centre, two additional training pitches, and a renovated swimming pool. The existing 200-bed athletes’ hostel will be converted into a hotel facility to support athletes and generate revenue.
Other approved facilities include an anti-doping laboratory, improved sports medical centres, modern floodlights, electronic advertising boards, pitch protection systems, and Video Assistant Referee technology.
National Sports Commission Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the projects as a major step towards reviving sports in Nigeria.
“These projects represent a bold step towards restoring Nigeria’s sporting glory and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations,” he said.
He also revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved a National Sports Infrastructure Development Bond to provide long-term funding for sports facilities across the country.
NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade said the initiative goes beyond infrastructure development.
“This is beyond infrastructure renewal; it is about building a complete sports ecosystem that supports talent discovery, athlete development, job creation and global competitiveness,” he said.
The Federal Government also approved support for states hosting the next three editions of the National Sports Festival. Enugu State, host of this year’s festival, will receive support for the construction of an Olympic-size swimming pool, an upgraded indoor sports hall, and renovated athletes’ hostels.
In addition, the government approved sports centres in 15 tertiary institutions and the construction of 20 mini stadiums in communities nationwide.
Renovation work is also ongoing at the National Stadium in Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, while construction continues at the Bichi Stadium in Kano.
