Ahmadu Bello Stadium Set For Transformation As Kaduna Govt Starts Reconstruction

The Kaduna State Government has commenced the comprehensive reconstruction of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium (ABS) to upgrade it to international standards, following the official transfer of ownership from the Federal Government.

During an inspection tour of the facility in Kaduna on Wednesday, Commissioner of Information-Designate, Ahmed Maiyaki, noted that the stadium, built in 1964, had deteriorated to the point where it could no longer host national, continental, or global sporting events.

According to Ireporter Online, Maiyaki emphasised that Governor Uba Sani’s vision is to deliver a world-class facility capable of attracting foreign investment, reviving Kaduna’s sporting prestige, and creating job opportunities for the state’s youth.

Maiyaki recalled that Kaduna once produced over half of Nigeria’s national football team, with legendary names such as Emmanuel and Celestine Babayaro, Tijani Babangida, and Garba Lawal emerging from the city—thanks to the quality sports infrastructure that once existed.

He stressed that the ongoing reconstruction is aimed at restoring that heritage and generating revenue for the state while stimulating both sporting and economic growth.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong, revealed that the renovation—captured in the 2025 budget—will be executed in phases.

The initial phase will focus on the main bowl, two training pitches, a 48-room hostel, and courts for basketball, handball, beach football, and beach volleyball.

According to Ireporter Online, Gugong pointed out that the facility’s current state of disrepair was the major reason behind awarding the reconstruction contract, adding that the new ABS will meet FIFA and CAF standards upon completion.

Commissioner for Youth, Gloria Ibrahim, described the project as a strategic investment in human capital, stressing that sports remain a vital channel for wealth creation and talent discovery among young people.

According to Ireporter Online, she acknowledged that the current facility is inadequate for training purposes, but assured that the short-term inconvenience would be worth enduring to secure a modern stadium that meets global expectations.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”