Tag: MKO Abiola Sports Arena

The Ogun State Government investment in sports infrastructure has received a major boost as Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially approved the MKO Abiola Sports Arena to host the forthcoming U-17 West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Nations Cup.

Following thorough inspections, officials confirmed that the venue meets all CAF standards in pitch quality, safety, facilities, and infrastructure.

Leading the delegation was the Executive Director of WAFU, Mr. Philip Chare, alongside the Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and NFF Board Member, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi as they praised the 25,000‑seat stadium for its modern locker rooms, press and medical areas, security provisions, broadcast readiness, and flawless floodlighting, demonstrating its readiness for continental competition.

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Speaking shortly after he inspection, the Ogun state commissioner for sports development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka described the approval as “a proud moment” for Ogun state and a testament to sustained commitment to elite infrastructure development.

He added that hosting countries from across Africa would not only elevate the state’s profile but also energise local businesses and fans.

“It shows that the investment of Ogun state government in sports development is yielding results. After the National Sports Festival, we have held International friendly here, in the next two weeks, we are going to hold the 3rd combined U18/U20 African Athletics Championships and of course the WAFU 17 is coming later in the year, it shows the mission and objectives of our investment has been achieved.

“But this achievement is not for Ogun State only but the nation at large. It has put Nigeria on the world map once again. This approval shows the growth of sports infrastructure in the country and has made Nigeria a serious nation in sports infrastructure.”

The MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun State venue of the 2025 Confederation of African Athletics U18/U20 Championships is having a makeover ahead of the competition billed for July 16-20, 2025.

Chairman of the Technical sub Committee of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Enefiok Udo-Obong said that the stadium, which hosted the 22nd National Sports Festival in May 2025, will get a facelift to conform with world standard track and field competition venues.

During the visit by CAA delegation to the complex shortly before the Gateway Games, the warm-up tracks and throwing pitch were tipped for facelift.

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Udo-Obong, a gold medallist at Sydney 2000 Olympics said work is currently going on in the area adding that it will be completed soon for the provision of the two important facilities.

“The stadium and throwing pitch in particular are taking a new face lift. Constructions of new and world class throwing area are underway. There is also a very conducive warm area taking shape.

“I want to make sure it is done in a standard that can host the best of athletics competition anywhere,” he said.

Udo-Obong noted that the technical committee is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that all the facilities and equipment needed for the championships are in place and functioning to requirement.

About 53 African countries are expected to participate in the four-day event, and preparations for them have reached fever pitch.

“Our goal is to present a good atmosphere for the athletes to compete and also leave a lasting impression about our ability to organise events,” Udo-Obong added.