The Federal Government has given the green light to a broad programme of sports infrastructure improvements across Nigeria, with the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja earmarked for a major overhaul under the first wave of the National Sports Commission’s “nationwide renewal” plan.
In a statement signed by the NSC’s Director of Press, Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, the Commission said the approvals were confirmed at its Tenders Board Meeting and span a wide mix of projects—ranging from upgrades to elite venues in the capital to community mini-stadiums, sports facilities at tertiary institutions, and direct assistance for states preparing for the next editions of the National Sports Festival.
Abuja stadium revamp and wider facilities package
Central to the first phase is a full reconstruction of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, where the playing surface and tartan track have deteriorated to the point that Nigeria’s national teams have been unable to make full use of the facility. The rehabilitation programme is set to include improvements to the dressing rooms and media centre, along with upgrades to VIP areas and corporate suites.
The planned work also covers PA and security systems, heating and cooling equipment, and replacement of the roof membrane to improve both safety and day-to-day comfort for users of the venue.
Additional enhancements at the Abuja complex include the introduction of floodlights built to international specifications, electronic advertising boards, and a protective pitch cover designed to allow the stadium to host concerts while also creating additional revenue streams.
The NSC further confirmed that Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be installed to bring officiating standards in line with current international requirements.
Beyond the main stadium, further approvals for the Abuja site include the creation of a High Performance Centre, and the transformation of a 200-bed athletes’ hostel into a public-facing hotel facility. The swimming pool at Package B will also be rehabilitated, while two new training pitches are planned.
A National Sports Centre is also part of the package, intended to provide dedicated office space for the Commission and all sports federations. The Commission added that an anti-doping laboratory will be established, and sports medical facilities will be upgraded with advanced equipment.
Officials praise the shift in sports policy
NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko said the approvals reflect a clear change in government approach to sports development.
“These projects represent a bold step towards restoring Nigeria’s sporting glory and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations. Mr. President is deliberately repositioning sports as a catalyst for youth empowerment, infrastructure development and economic growth,” Dikko said, while noting that President Tinubu has already approved the creation of a National Sports Infrastructure Development Bond to support long-term funding for major facility upgrades and maintenance across the country.
NSC Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade described the scope as “transformational,” adding that it goes beyond physical construction. “This is beyond infrastructure renewal — it is about building a complete sports ecosystem that supports talent discovery, athlete development, job creation, and global competitiveness,” she said.
Festival support, university centres, and community mini venues
Outside Abuja, the Federal Government also approved direct support for states hosting the next three editions of the National Sports Festival. Enugu State, which is scheduled to host the next edition later this year, will receive funding for an Olympic-standard swimming pool, an improved indoor sports hall, and rehabilitated athletes’ hostels, among other initiatives.
Across the country, the Commission’s approvals include the setting up of sports centres at 15 tertiary institutions, distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The NSC also confirmed plans for 20 mini sports centres and mini stadiums in communities nationwide, with the goal of encouraging youth involvement, strengthening grassroots development, and supporting local economic activity.
Other stadium projects in progress through partnerships
Work is already underway on several additional major stadium developments being delivered through NSC-led collaborations.
- The Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna is undergoing full redevelopment in partnership with Kaduna State Government, with completion projected for 2027.
- In Kano, construction is progressing on the new Bichi Stadium through cooperation between the NSC and the National Assembly.
- The NSC said processes are at an advanced stage for the complete redevelopment of the National Stadium Lagos through a public-private partnership.
- Also in Ibadan, the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium is set to be redeveloped through cooperation with the Oyo State Government.
The NSC stated that the entire package aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Commission’s RHINSE framework—Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy—which is aimed at positioning sports as a strategic engine for economic growth, job creation, and wider national development.
