BY Abdulsalam Abdullah
The Ogun state government says it has begun renovating the MKO Abiola International stadium, Alake Sports Centre, ahead of the National Sports Festival (NSF) in Abeokuta, the state capital.
The NSF competition, tagged ‘2024 Gateway Games’, is expected to hold from January 12 to 26, 2025.
Speaking after a tour of the facility, Wasiu Isiaka, commissioner for sports development in the state, assured Nigerians of timely completion of the project.
“The scraping of the pitch at the main bowl of the stadium, the removal of the tartan tracks, as well as the roofs at the indoor hall of the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, are ongoing simultaneously,” Isiaka said.
The commissioner said renovations will include expanding the VIP section, an olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis and handball courts.
He noted that the government will intensify sports and youth development efforts in the state.
He said the NSF will unite top athletes, inspire future generations, and showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
“Massive renovation will not only help develop the skills and dedication of local athletes before, during, and after the games but will also underscore the commitment and readiness of the state government to host the National Sports Festival,” he said.
“I call on corporate organizations and other well-meaning individuals to join hands with the government to make the NSF a huge success.
“The Sports Festival is a moment for the state to shine and show the world the abundance of talent, potential, and hospitality available in the state.”
Isiaka added that the state is ready to host a world-class festival, while ensuring top-quality facilities that will attract both national and international events.
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