FG moves to restore National Stadiums, expand sports infrastructure nationwide

Posted : 27 May 2026

The Federal Government has launched an ambitious nationwide sports infrastructure renewal drive, with the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja and the National Stadium, Lagos emerging as major beneficiaries of the first phase of projects approved by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

The approvals were ratified during the NSC Tenders Board Meeting, where several contracts and development initiatives aimed at repositioning Nigerian sports were endorsed.

Central to the projects is the total redevelopment of the pitch at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, which has suffered years of deterioration and limited use by national teams. The tartan tracks inside the main bowl will also be upgraded, alongside extensive rehabilitation works on dressing rooms, the media centre, VIP and corporate sections, public address and security systems, cooling facilities, roof membrane, and other critical infrastructure.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the intervention as a major step in restoring Nigeria’s sporting facilities to international standards.

According to him, the Tinubu administration is deliberately repositioning sports as a platform for youth empowerment, economic growth, and infrastructure development.

He revealed that the Federal Government had already approved the establishment of a National Sports Infrastructure Development Bond aimed at ensuring sustainable funding for the revamp and maintenance of sports facilities across the country.

The Commission also approved the establishment of a High Performance Centre at the Abuja stadium complex, while a 200-bed athletes’ hostel within the facility will be completed and transformed into a hotel complex capable of serving athletes and generating revenue for the commission.

Other approved projects in Abuja include the rehabilitation of the swimming pool at Package B, construction of two new training pitches, installation of modern floodlights, electronic advertising boards, pitch covers, and the introduction of Video Assistant Referee technology.

In addition, contracts were awarded for the construction of an anti-doping laboratory, upgrade of sports medical facilities, and procurement of advanced medical equipment.

The Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said the projects are designed to build a complete sports ecosystem that supports talent development, employment opportunities, and global competitiveness.

Beyond Abuja, the Federal Government confirmed that plans for the full redevelopment of the National Stadium, Lagos are already at advanced stages through a partnership involving government and private investors.

Similarly, the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan is expected to undergo major upgrades through collaboration between the NSC and the Oyo State Government.

The Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna is also currently being redeveloped in partnership with the Kaduna State Government, while work continues at the newly constructed Bichi Stadium in Kano through collaboration with the National Assembly.

As part of broader grassroots development plans, the Commission approved the construction of 20 mini sports centres and mini stadiums across communities nationwide to engage youths positively and create economic opportunities through sports.

The Federal Government also approved direct support for states hosting the next three editions of the National Sports Festival. Enugu State, host of the next festival, will benefit from the construction of an Olympic-size swimming pool, rehabilitation of athletes’ hostels, and upgrades to its indoor sports hall.

In another major development, the Commission approved the establishment of sports centres in 15 tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones as part of efforts to revive school sports and strengthen talent discovery.

The projects form part of the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy (RHINSE), which seeks to position sports as a key contributor to national development, investment, and job creation.

This comprehensive modernization strategy underscores a critical turning point for the athletic landscape of the nation. By prioritizing both elite training facilities and grassroots community hubs, the initiative establishes a framework for sustainable athletic growth. These nationwide transformations are set to elevate the international standing of Nigerian sports while fostering domestic socioeconomic growth.

FG moves to restore National Stadiums, expand sports infrastructure nationwide

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