Ado Salisu
The President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, has commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for the ongoing renovation and upgrade of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, describing the project as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.
Benjamin gave the commendation during an unscheduled visit to the stadium to assess the progress of work, expressing satisfaction with the quality of the ongoing rehabilitation.
He said the renovation of the iconic sports facility had rekindled hope among athletes, coaches, sports administrators and football enthusiasts that Kaduna State was steadily reclaiming its position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting destinations.
According to the SWAN President, the standard of work at the stadium reflects Governor Sani’s determination to provide world-class sporting infrastructure capable of hosting both national and international competitions while creating opportunities for discovering and nurturing young sporting talents.
He noted that the Ahmadu Bello Stadium has, for decades, remained one of Nigeria’s most historic sporting facilities, producing athletes who represented the country with distinction at international competitions.
Benjamin expressed optimism that the rehabilitation project would not only restore the stadium to its former glory but also stimulate economic activities through sports tourism, create employment opportunities and encourage greater youth participation in sports.
He added that Governor Sani’s investment in sports infrastructure aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to reposition sports as a catalyst for economic growth, national unity and youth development.
“The ongoing work at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium is highly commendable. It is evident that Governor Uba Sani is committed to restoring the lost glory of sports in Kaduna State. The quality of work we have seen speaks volumes about the seriousness attached to the project,” he said.
The SWAN President described sports as a powerful platform for youth engagement, peacebuilding and economic empowerment, noting that investment in modern sporting facilities represents an investment in the future of thousands of young people across the state.
He urged Governor Sani to sustain the current momentum by continuing to invest in sports infrastructure, athlete development and grassroots competitions to consolidate the gains already being recorded.
Benjamin also called for increased support for sports associations, schools and community-based competitions to build a sustainable sports ecosystem capable of producing future champions.
He maintained that sustained investment in sports would complement the Kaduna State Government’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security and youth empowerment.
The association expressed confidence that upon completion, the upgraded Ahmadu Bello Stadium would once again host major national sporting events, football competitions and athletics championships, further strengthening Kaduna State’s reputation as a centre of sporting excellence.
SWAN also appealed to corporate organisations, development partners and other stakeholders to support the Kaduna State Government’s efforts to revitalise sports and empower young talents.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting initiatives that advance sports development and pledged to continue partnering with the government in showcasing programmes that contribute to the growth of sports in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.