The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has applauded Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike over plans to construct a mini stadium in Gwagwalada, describing the project as a major breakthrough for grassroots sports development and Nigeria’s preparations for the 2027 African School Games, Sports247.ng reports.
Olopade said the proposed facility represents another significant step towards achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the administration’s commitment to improving sporting infrastructure and creating opportunities for young athletes nationwide.
The NSC boss explained that the Gwagwalada Mini Stadium, when completed, would serve as an important sporting venue during the 2027 African School Games scheduled for Abuja, while providing aspiring athletes within the FCT with improved access to facilities for training and talent development.
Revealing the scale of the Federal Government’s ongoing investment in sports infrastructure, Olopade disclosed that more than 30 contractors had already been mobilised to various locations across the country.
“As I speak, over 30 contractors have been mobilized to various sites to ensure that sporting facilities and infrastructure are put in place for both our young and elite athletes across the country,” he stated.
Olopade also praised President Tinubu for what he described as unprecedented support for Nigerian sports, highlighting the administration’s commitment of over ₦200 billion towards the rehabilitation and development of sporting facilities nationwide.
“We are more than grateful at the Sports Commission because Mr President has been very supportive of sports like never before,” he said.
“His commitment to spending over ₦200 billion on infrastructure revamp across the country will ensure that indigent children have access to quality facilities to harness their sporting potential.”
The Director-General stressed that modern sporting infrastructure remains essential to developing world-class athletes, improving competitive performances and increasing Nigeria’s chances of winning medals at international competitions.
He further commended Wike’s infrastructure development efforts across the Federal Capital Territory.
“The construction of the Gwagwalada Mini Stadium by the FCT Minister is a massive welcome development for the Sports Commission. The Minister deserves all the accolades for the good work he has been doing in the FCT, particularly in the area of construction and infrastructure development,” Olopade declared.
The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to strengthen grassroots participation, accelerate talent discovery and provide Nigerian athletes with facilities capable of supporting long-term sporting excellence.
With Abuja preparing to host the 2027 African School Games, the proposed Gwagwalada Mini Stadium could become an important part of the capital’s sporting legacy, extending its benefits to young athletes long after the competition.
, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has applauded Federal Capital Territory Minister){kind=link}