Today, We formalise a decision of enduring institutional consequence: the transfer of ownership and handover of Ahmadu Bello Stadium from the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Sports Commission ably led by Alhaji Shehu Dikko, to the Kaduna State Government, subject to agreed safeguards graciously approved by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in the national interest.
This milestone underscores our firm resolve to reposition sport as a disciplined instrument of economic growth and social renewal. Since its commissioning in 1964, the Stadium has not undergone the depth of structural modernisation required to sustain its status as a premier sporting arena. That era of deferment has now yielded to deliberate action. Comprehensive reconstruction is underway to expand capacity from 16,000 to 32,000 seats, positioning it as the second largest stadium in Nigeria after the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and among the finest of its kind in the country.
Our purpose is precise: to stimulate economic activity, strengthen sports tourism, generate employment, and attract investment. Beyond commerce, however, the Stadium will remain a shared national asset, open to our national teams, federal sporting programmes, and events of collective importance. Its gates will continue to welcome all Nigerians.
It is gladdening to add that the leadership of the National Sports Commission has commended Kaduna State’s prompt alignment with the transformation agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to establish sports as a viable economic driver. Kaduna has set a clear example; others are now embracing this strategic direction.
I extend profound appreciation to the Federal Government; our great leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the National Sports Commission, and all stakeholders whose diligence has enabled this transition. We are confident that the renewed Stadium will stand for decades as a testament to partnership, foresight, and responsible public stewardship.
