Kaduna: The National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Kaduna State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) transferring the Ahmadu Bello Stadium to the state for immediate rehabilitation. The agreement, signed on Thursday following presidential approval, will increase the stadium’s capacity from 12,000 to 32,000.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, a statement issued by Kehinde Ajayi, Director, Media and PR, NSC, stated that Malam Shehu Dikko, NSC Chairman, signed for the commission, while Gov. Uba Sani signed on behalf of the Kaduna State Government. Speaking at the event, Dikko said the sports sector had recorded unprecedented growth under President Bola Tinubu. He highlighted that 373 medals were won across sports in 2025, and over 140,000 jobs were created.
Dikko emphasized the importance of infrastructure in sustaining the sports economy and driving development. He mentioned that the commission adopted a strategy of partnering with both public and private sectors to enhance facilities nationwide. He praised the Kaduna governor for aligning with the Federal Government’s vision by taking over and commencing redevelopment of the stadium.
Dikko also noted the establishment of the National Sports Infrastructure Development Board, which will mobilize funds for revamping and constructing world-class sports facilities nationwide. The Federal Government targets at least one world-class facility in each of the six geopolitical zones.
Governor Sani commended the NSC leadership for its efforts in repositioning Nigerian sports, stating that the redevelopment would transform the Ahmadu Bello Stadium into a world-class facility. He explained that the old structure had been demolished to make way for a new, state-of-the-art stadium, which would have a 32,000 seating capacity. The upgraded facility is expected to attract top international sporting events to Kaduna State.
Governor Sani expressed optimism about completing the project within eight months and pledged his administration’s support to the NSC to realize the Federal Government’s sports development vision. He described the Sports Infrastructure Development Board as a transformative initiative for the sector, positioning Nigeria among leading sporting nations.