Kaduna State Government has announced plans to make the state a leading sports destination in Nigeria through the reconstruction of major facilities, improved infrastructure and increased support for local talents.
The Commissioner of Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, disclosed this during a project tour with members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), according to a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibraheem Musa.
Maiyaki said Governor Uba Sani was rebuilding the Ahmadu Bello Stadium into a world-class sporting facility capable of hosting international competitions.
The reconstructed stadium is expected to have a 32,000-seat capacity, making it the second-largest stadium in Nigeria after the National Stadium in Abuja.
The commissioner said the facility would serve not only as a venue for sporting events but also as a tourism destination capable of attracting investments to the state.
He noted that some of Nigeria’s greatest footballers began their careers in Kaduna, particularly at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, adding that the history would be reflected when the reconstruction is completed.
Maiyaki disclosed that the second phase of the project would include hotel accommodation for visiting athletes and sports officials, with private investors already showing interest.
He expressed optimism that the project would be completed by December, barring any unforeseen challenges, adding that the facility would help create jobs, boost tourism and attract investments.
The commissioner attributed the project and growing investment opportunities partly to the improved security situation in Kaduna, saying the peace achieved over the past three years had created a better environment for development.
He also cited the decision by SWAN to hold its 2026 National Triennial Congress in Kaduna as evidence that the state had become safer and more welcoming for residents, businesses and visitors.
Maiyaki described SWAN as an important partner in the development of sports in the state and congratulated its National President, Isaiah Benjamin, on securing a second term.
The delegation also visited the upgraded Uba Sani Township Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 10,000 and is expected to host local league matches.
Former cycling champion Samaila Usman said the stadium had dressing rooms for home and away teams, a referees’ room, media and conference facilities, as well as toilet facilities for each stand.
Usman, a certified Level 2 coach, also disclosed that Governor Uba Sani had been supporting grassroots sports by providing stipends to young people showing strong interest in sporting activities.
At the end of the tour, the SWAN President commended the quality of the projects and said the restoration of peace in Kaduna was essential to the growth of sports.
