(Nest of Champions) in Uyo is the only Nigerian stadium certified for international matches—an issue Dikko attributes to poor foundational decisions, lack of maintenance, and outdated concepts in stadium development.
To change that narrative, the NSC is prioritizing the rehabilitation of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, followed by a phased revitalization of several other major venues, including:
- Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna
- Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan
- Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu
- Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi
Additionally, the long-awaited concession of Lagos’ National Stadium, Surulere to a private investor is nearing completion.
The NSC also envisions transforming select stadiums—Abuja, Kaduna, Ibadan, and Lagos—into “Sport Cities”. These will be fully integrated complexes featuring hotels, malls, convention centers, offices, residences, and other entertainment infrastructure, creating an ecosystem that not only fosters sports development but drives economic growth and employment.
To professionally manage this overhaul, a National Sports Infrastructure Development and Management Board will soon be established, comprising experts from relevant sectors.
Dikko assured that, barring unforeseen setbacks, the Abuja stadium pitch and core infrastructure will be ready to host international events by September/October 2025—a milestone that will mark Nigeria’s re-entry into the global sporting stage.
“We are grateful to Mr. President for empowering us to pursue this ambitious but necessary transformation,” Dikko stated. “This is a road never traveled before at this scale, but it is a fundamental step in resetting, refocusing, and relaunching Nigerian sports.”
As Nigeria sets its sights on reclaiming its place in global sports, the NSC’s renewed drive may signal a long-awaited renaissance for a nation with immense sporting potential.
