Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun on Friday in Abeokuta said his administration was committed to providing state-of-the-art facilities for the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF).
Abiodun, shortly after inspecting ongoing renovation of facilities at the MKO Abiola Stadium and the Alake Sports Centre at Ijeja, stated that preparations were in top gear for hosting the Festival.
“This stadium has been constructed since, probably anywhere between 30 to 35 years ago, and this is the first time it is witnessing such a level of reconstruction.
“We are doing it with a sense of commitment and dedication, the way we are committing to and implementing all other projects across the State.
“It is in line with our Ogun standard, and I have no doubt that by the time the whole reconstruction is completed, this stadium will rank as one of the best in the country and will remain one of our legacies,” he said.
Abiodun expressed satisfaction with the level of work done so far and the competence of the contractors handling the projects.
“I have come here (MKO Abiola Stadium) today (Friday) to see for myself the level of progress being made in the reconstruction work ahead of the Festival.
“I want to say that I’m impressed with the level of activities that I have seen at the stadium.
“I have been to the site where the Olympic-size swimming pool is being constructed, as well as the tennis court and the handball court.
“Now, the main bowl’s pitch is being removed, the surface is being prepared in readiness for concrete work, and eventually the turf.
“The tracks itself has been totally removed, and the drains have been opened. They are going to ensure that the pitch is canvassed so that when it rains, the water drains into the drains.
“The tracks is also getting ready, and I’m satisfied with the level of professionalism being demonstrated by the contractors,” he said.
The governor, at the Alake Sports Centre, expressed his regrets at the fact that the facility had been neglected for long.
He however expressed the commitment of his administration to put it in good shape for the successful hosting of the Festival.
Abiodun said the Festival would serve as an opportunity to bring the youth together for meaningful engagement, as sports not only trains the mind but also teaches teamwork and leadership skills.
NAAN a reports that the Festival tagged “Gateway Games 2025” will begin on Jan. 12 and end on Jan. 26.
