The Ogun State Government has commenced reconstruction and renovation works on the MKO Abiola International Stadium and the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, ahead of the National Sports Festival, NSF, tagged “2024 Gateway Games.”
The National Sports Festival is slated for January 12 to 26, 2025.
Speaking after inspecting the two facilities, on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, assured that the renovation works would be completed within the stipulated time and would be tested before the games.
The renovation includes the scrapping of the pitch at the main bowl of the stadium, the removal of the tartan tracks, as well as the roofs of the indoor hall of the Alake Sports Centre.
He revealed that the VIP section of the stadium would be expanded, while an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, and handball courts would also be constructed within the stadium.
The commissioner stated that the renovation will not only help develop the skills and dedication of local athletes before, during, and after the games but will also underscore the commitment and readiness of the state government to host the festival.
He maintained that the current administration is intensifying its efforts on sports and youth development programmes in the state.
