The Federal Government has approved a new phase of reconstruction at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with plans to modernise key facilities and strengthen sports development infrastructure.
The intervention, approved through the National Sports Commission (NSC), will see major upgrades to the stadium, including a total replacement of the main playing surface and tartan tracks.
Officials said renovation works will extend to dressing rooms, media facilities, corporate and VIP sections, security and public announcement systems, heating and cooling infrastructure, as well as repairs to damaged sections of the stadium roof.
The development marks another round of investment in the national stadium after rehabilitation works carried out between 2020 and 2022 under the Ministry of Sports’ “Adopt-a-Pitch” initiative backed by businessman Aliko Dangote.
To support broader renovation efforts, the Federal Government set aside ₦24.6 billion in the 2026 budget through the National Sports Commission for structural upgrades.
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Chairman of the commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, said the project reflects President Bola Tinubu’s plan to use sports as a driver of youth empowerment, economic growth and national development.
As part of the expansion, authorities also plan to establish a High Performance Centre and convert the stadium’s 200-bed athletes’ hostel into hotel-standard accommodation.
The rehabilitation programme will further cover the swimming pool, while two additional training pitches are expected to be built within the complex.
Plans are also in place to install international-grade floodlights, electronic perimeter advertising systems, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, anti-doping laboratories and improved sports medical facilities.
The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, described the initiative as a long-term sports development strategy designed to improve talent discovery, create jobs and position Nigeria for stronger international sporting competitiveness.
In addition, the Federal Government approved the establishment of 20 mini sports centres nationwide to encourage grassroots participation and expand opportunities for young athletes.