Following the transfer of ownership from the federal government, the Kaduna State government has commenced the reconstruction of the dilapidated Ahmadu Bello Stadium (ABS) to bring it up to international standards.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the facility in Kaduna yesterday, the commissioner-designate for Information and Home Affairs, Ahmed Maiyaki, said the stadium – built in 1964 – had fallen into a state of serious disrepair and could no longer host national, let alone continental or global sporting events.
“This facility is not fit to host any national event, not to talk of continental or international tournaments. The vision of Gov Uba Sani is to deliver an international standard stadium that will attract foreign investment, revive Kaduna’s sporting glory, and create jobs for our youths.” Maiyaki said.
He noted that at its peak, Kaduna produced more than half of Nigeria’s national football team, including stars such as Emmanuel and Celestine Babayaro, Tijani Babangida, and Garba Lawal—thanks to the quality of sports facilities available at the time.
“We are bringing back the history and glory. This stadium will be a source of revenue for the state and a catalyst for sporting and economic development,” Maiyaki added, assuring that the project will be completed within record time.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong, explained that the renovation, approved in the 2025 budget, will be executed in phases.
He said the first phase will focus on the main bowl, two training pitches, a 48-room hostel, and courts for basketball, handball, beach football, and beach volleyball.
“The level of dilapidation is what informed the award of this contract. Once completed, ABS will be able to host both FIFA and CAF competitions.” Gugong said.
Commissioner for Youth, Gloria Ibrahim, described the project as a strategic investment in human capital development, noting that sports remain one of the most viable platforms for wealth creation and talent discovery among young people.
