KEY POINTS

• Ekiti stadium rehabilitation begins with FIFA-standard turf installation.
• The project includes new tartan tracks, renovated stands, and an administrative block.
• Plans are underway for an intensive training camp ahead of the National Sports Festival.

The Ekiti State Government has commenced the rehabilitation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti, aiming to elevate its facilities to international standards.

This initiative, according to Dr. Olusola Osetoba, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, reflects Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to advancing sports infrastructure and promoting athletic excellence in the state.

Osetoba revealed on Sunday that the project includes the installation of FIFA-standard synthetic grass imported from Italy.

“Experts are already handling the installation process to ensure the stadium meets global standards,” she said.

In addition, the stadium will receive new tartan tracks for athletics to improve its capability for hosting different sporting events.

The project’s scope also covers the renovation of existing spectators’ stands, the construction of standard canopies over uncovered sections, and the building of an administrative block for the Ekiti State Sports Commission within the stadium complex.

Indoor sports hall and gym renovations underway

Osetoba provided updates on the ongoing construction of a 900-seater indoor sports hall initiated by the Oyebanji administration last year.

“Upon completion, the stadium will be equipped to host not only home and international matches but also multiple sporting competitions,” she said.

The indoor sports facility serves 16 different sports activities which include basketball, badminton, handball, volleyball and boxing.

According to Punch, this addition is expected to significantly enhance the state’s capacity to host national and international tournaments.

The Ekiti State Sports Commission plans to host a two-week extensive training camp before the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta this year.

This initiative is aimed at ensuring that the state’s athletes are well-prepared for the competition.

Strengthening Ekiti’s position in national sports

Osetoba emphasized the government’s dedication to strengthening Ekiti’s position in the Nigerian sports scene.

“To reclaim dominance in weightlifting, we have renovated the weightlifting gymnasium within the stadium,” she stated. The renovated gymnasium is expected to provide a conducive environment for athletes to train and excel.

The rehabilitation activities support Governor Oyebanji’s approach to sports talent development in the state by creating national and international competition pathways for young athletes.

Ekiti enhances its position as a sports hub in Nigeria through modern sports infrastructure development.

The state leadership expects these developments to increase participation in sports but also generate economic growth and draw more tourists to the region.

Residents and stakeholders acknowledge that the ongoing developments will create lasting positive effects on Ekiti’s sporting landscape.