Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has flagged off the remodeling of Osogbo Stadium into a world-class sporting facility, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports development in the state.
The governor also unveiled a comprehensive sports agenda aimed at positioning Osun as a leading hub for sporting excellence.
The event, held at the stadium, was attended by top government officials, sports stakeholders, and enthusiasts. It also featured an award ceremony and cash gifts to distinguished athletes from Osun State, in recognition of their contributions to sports.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Adeleke emphasized that the project was beyond mere renovation but a full-scale redevelopment to meet international standards.
“This is beyond renovation; it is a complete remodeling that will transform the Osogbo Stadium into a globally recognized sports facility,” he stated.
He assured the public that his administration was determined to equip Osun with some of the best sporting facilities in Nigeria, capable of hosting major national and international events.
“By the time we complete this project, Osun will be positioned as a key player in Nigeria’s sports industry. Our dream is to build a stadium with the capacity to host the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games, and even Super Eagles’ matches,” he declared.
The governor further explained that the remodeling would include three FIFA-standard football pitches, as well as facilities for other sports such as volleyball, swimming, handball, hockey, and basketball.
“In addition to a world-class football pitch, the new stadium will feature dedicated courts and fields for multiple sporting disciplines. We are also constructing a state-of-the-art indoor sports hall, athletes’ hostels, and a four-star hotel, ensuring the facility generates revenue and remains self-sustaining,” he added.
Beyond infrastructure, Adeleke outlined his broader sports development agenda, highlighting the establishment of strong institutional structures.
He announced that legal frameworks had been finalized for the creation of the Osun Sports Commission, a body that would coordinate and manage sports activities in the state.
“This commission will ensure the proper development and administration of all sporting activities in Osun. Additionally, we are setting up a Sports Trust Fund to guarantee sustainable financing for the sector. The legal framework for this is already nearing completion,” he revealed.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to the welfare of athletes and sports professionals, the governor disclosed that all athletes who had made Osun proud at various competitions would be rewarded accordingly.
“Osun athletes deserve encouragement and support. We will recognize their efforts and provide incentives to motivate them. We also urge our young and professional athletes to remain in Osun and contribute to this unfolding sports revolution,” he stated.
He assured that Osun United and Osun Babes, the state’s football teams, would receive greater attention and support, expressing satisfaction with their current performance in their respective leagues.
“I am pleased to hear that Osun United and Osun Babes are making strides in their leagues. Our administration is committed to providing them with the necessary resources to thrive,” Adeleke said.
He also directed the Deputy Governor to investigate and address issues surrounding contract athletes and coaches, pledging immediate government action to resolve their concerns.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Sports Development, Prince Kola Adewusi, described the stadium remodeling as the dawn of a new era for sports in Osun.
He emphasized that the project included extensive facilities such as two additional training pitches and specialized areas for various sports.
“This is the beginning of a sports revolution in Osun. With these new facilities, our state will soon be ready to host national sports competitions,” he declared.
He further assured that efforts would be made to bring back Osun-born athletes who had left the state in search of better opportunities, vowing that Osun would take a frontline position in Nigeria’s sports space.
The stadium project is expected to be completed within 12 months.
