The Federal Government is planning to upgrade the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to improve its facilities and make it suitable for major sporting competitions and other events.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, disclosed this on Tuesday when he received a delegation from four Federal Government-owned media organisations in Abuja.
The organisations are the News Agency of Nigeria, Nigeria Television Authority, Voice of Nigeria and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.
Dikko said the commission was working to improve the stadium’s grass playing surface, lighting and other essential infrastructure. It was also considering roofing the facility to enhance its appearance and functionality.
He said the proposed improvements were aimed at making the stadium more attractive to athletes, sports administrators, event promoters and private investors.
According to him, the commission plans to transform the stadium into a multipurpose sports and entertainment centre capable of generating revenue beyond football matches.
“We want the stadium to be active, not only when football matches are being played but also for other events and commercial activities.
“The plan is to develop the stadium into a vibrant sports complex with complementary facilities, including hospitality, commercial and conference services,” Dikko said.
He added that the commission was exploring ways to attract private-sector investment in the development and management of sports infrastructure.
Dikko said the approach would reduce reliance on government funding for facility maintenance while creating jobs and supporting business growth.
He described sports infrastructure as a national asset capable of generating economic benefits when properly maintained and commercially managed.
The NSC chairman also called for stronger collaboration with government-owned media organisations to promote sports development, attract investment and raise public awareness of the commission’s programmes.
He said the commission remained committed to developing grassroots sports, creating opportunities for young athletes and strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in international sports.
Dikko added that improved sports infrastructure and a stronger sports economy could generate employment across broadcasting, tourism, hospitality and commerce.
He urged the media organisations to work closely with the commission to publicise its programmes and projects.
