Governor Sule Pledges New Olympic-Sized Stadium For Lafia

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has announced ambitious plans to construct an Olympic-sized stadium in Lafia, the state capital, before his current term concludes.

Speaking to reporters following the final of the 2025 Nasarawa State Governor’s Football Cup tournament at Lafia City Stadium, Governor Sule reiterated his commitment to elevating the state’s sporting infrastructure.

A statement issued on Tuesday morning by Eche Amos, Head of Public Relations for the State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, outlined the administration’s broader vision to overhaul sporting facilities across the state.

“The ultimate goal here is not just to renovate the Lafia City Stadium, but to rebuild the entire facilities.”

Governor Sule explained that the existing Lafia City Stadium is currently overstretched by numerous sporting events, hindering comprehensive renovation efforts. Consequently, his administration is now considering building a completely new, state-of-the-art facility.

“My administration is already considering constructing a brand new sporting facility in the State Capital, an Olympic-size Stadium where, we believe, will serve as a crucible for nurturing excellence, empowering our young athletes to scale national and international heights,” the Governor stated. He added that the new stadium is envisioned to host high-level tournaments, including matches involving Nigeria’s national teams, thereby attracting investment and solidifying Nasarawa’s reputation as a sporting hub.

In the Governor’s Cup final, Karu Local Government Area triumphed over Wamba Local Government Area with a convincing 3-0 victory. Ewa Samuel scored twice, and Chinedu Okorie added the third, securing the trophy and a prize of Five Million Naira (N5,000,000.00). Wamba received Three Million Naira (N3,000,000.00). Keffi Local Government Area claimed the bronze medal, defeating Keana Local Government Area 2-0.

Individual accolades were awarded to Maji Amos (Karu) for Best Goalkeeper, Paul Bako (Keffi) for Highest Goal Scorer, and Haruna Abubakar (Karu) for Most Valuable Player. Nasarawa Local Government Area received the Fair-Play award, while Suleiman Dauda Sani (Makalele) was named ‘Fan-of-the-Tournament’ for his exceptional sportsmanship.

Thirteen local government areas participated in the 2025 tournament, which is co-hosted annually by the State Football Association and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development in honour of the sitting Governor. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and the Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau.