Victor Onogagamue, former Director General of the Delta Sports Commission, has described the Federal Government's approval of sports infrastructure upgrades across Nigeria as a significant relief. The government recently approved the rehabilitation of major sports facilities, including the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and the Muda Lawal Stadium in Abeokuta, built in honor of the legendary footballer Muda Lawal.
Onogagamue's Endorsement of the Initiative
Speaking with The Guardian, Onogagamue commended the government's decision, stating that it is a step in the right direction. He specifically praised the renovation of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and suggested that similar upgrades should be extended to the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.
Call for Long-Term Maintenance Contracts
Onogagamue, a facilities expert and Chairman of the LOC Technical Sub-Committee for the 2nd African School Games scheduled for 2027 in Abuja, emphasized the need for long-term maintenance contracts. He proposed that renowned companies should be awarded contracts of at least 10 years to ensure the sustainability of sports infrastructures nationwide.
Impact on Other Stadiums
According to Onogagamue, the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja was long overdue for rehabilitation. He expressed happiness that President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade, noting that it would reduce the pressure on the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. He also highlighted the transformation of the National Theatre in Igamu and called for similar treatment for the National Stadium in Lagos and other major cities.
Importance of Reputable Companies
Onogagamue urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to ensure that the upgrades are carried out by reputable companies. He cited Julius Berger, which built the MKO Abiola National Stadium, as a potential candidate for renovation and maintenance. He expressed confidence that the NSC would monitor the projects to encourage further government investment.
Approved Projects and Upgrades
The approvals were ratified at the NSC Tenders Board Meeting, where major projects aimed at revamping key facilities were greenlit. The Moshood Abiola Stadium complex will receive modern floodlights meeting international standards, electronic advertising boards, protective pitch covers, and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. These upgrades are part of Nigeria's efforts to improve readiness for international competitions.
Addressing Past Issues
In recent years, the Abuja stadium pitch has faced criticism for its poor condition, forcing the Super Eagles and other national teams to relocate to Uyo. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed that the tartan tracks, dressing rooms, media centre, VIP areas, corporate suites, public address systems, security systems, roof membrane, and cooling and heating systems will also be rehabilitated.
Additional Approved Projects
Other approved projects include the redevelopment of a 200-bed athletes' hostel into a modern hotel, rehabilitation of the swimming pool at Package B, construction of two new training pitches, and upgrade of sports medical facilities with modern equipment. Dikko described these projects as a major milestone in restoring Nigeria's sporting glory.
