Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja , Nigeria
The Federal Government has affirmed its commitment to transform the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja into a venue for Grade A matches, despite the current non-certification of the pitch by CAF and FIFA, which hinders such matches from taking place there.
Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, revealed this ambition during the official handover ceremony of the rehabilitated pitch and scoreboards at the stadium. Dangote Group and Aron Nigeria Ltd were instrumental in this rehabilitation, showcasing a collaborative effort between the private sector and the government.
In a statement made available to Truth Live News, the Minister emphasized the administration’s determination to meet international standards, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration. He lauded the completion of the two-year post-maintenance rehabilitation, urging increased collaboration between the government and the private sector to further advance sports development in Nigeria.
The involvement of Dangote Group and Aron Nigeria Ltd in the rehabilitation of National Stadium facilities was described by Senator Owan Enoh as a significant milestone in enhancing sports infrastructure in the country. He expressed gratitude to Dangote Group for their substantial commitment and called for continued collaboration between the government and the private sector for the development of sports in Nigeria.
Acknowledging the importance of Grade A matches at the national stadium, the Minister called for greater private sector interest and commitment to investing in sports. He buttressed the vital role sports play in shaping the destinies of Nigerian youth and emphasized the Ministry’s readiness to engage in fruitful partnerships through the National Sports Industry Policy (NSIP).
Senator Owan Enoh affirmed the ongoing commitment to maintaining the National Stadium facilities in perfect condition beyond the handover. He reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a robust partnership between the government and the private sector for sustained growth in sports development.
The Permanent Secretary overseeing the Ministries of Sports and Youth Development, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, commended the successful collaboration between the government and the private sector, applauding Dangote Group for its substantial rehabilitation efforts.
Representing the contractors, Aron Nigeria Ltd, Soji Adeniyi, expressed satisfaction with the project’s execution, highlighting Dangote Group’s sponsorship, timely payments, and the cooperation of the Ministry’s facility managers.
The press release was signed by Mohammed Manga, Director of Press and Public Relations, to the Honorable Minister