BREAKING: FG Gives Green Light For VAR, Anti-Doping Lab At MKO Abiola Stadium

According to reports monitored by Ireporter Online, the announcement was made on Wednesday by the National Sports Commission (NSC) through its official handle, where the project was described as the first phase of a nationwide effort to restore sporting facilities to global standards.

The commission disclosed that the renovation plan for the Abuja stadium extends beyond the introduction of VAR and anti-doping systems. The project will also involve the rehabilitation of athletics tracks and floodlights, upgrades to media and athletes’ facilities, and the establishment of a High Performance Centre alongside additional training pitches.

Authorities further approved the transformation of the existing 200-room athletes’ hostel within the stadium complex into a standard hotel facility. Medical units within the complex are also expected to receive modern equipment as part of the comprehensive upgrade.

Reports indicate that the intervention will also cover the construction of a dedicated sports centre designed to accommodate offices for various national sports federations, in addition to the rehabilitation of major sporting facilities in different parts of the country.

The NSC noted that states preparing to host future editions of the National Sports Festival will receive support under the initiative. The commission added that plans are underway to build mini sports centres nationwide to improve grassroots access to sporting infrastructure and encourage talent development.

The project will equally include the development of sports facilities in selected tertiary institutions as part of efforts to strengthen school sports and establish centres of sporting excellence across Nigeria.

The commission stated that the investments represent the first phase of a larger strategy aimed at positioning sports as a tool for youth empowerment, economic development, talent discovery, and national cohesion.