By Bashir Bello, Abuja.
The President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Mr Isaiah Benjamin has commended Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for the quality of work currently ongoing at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, describing the project as another demonstration of the administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.
The SWAN president expressed this when he paid and unscheduled visit to see the progress being made.
He said the ongoing renovation and upgrade of facilities at the iconic stadium have rekindled hope among athletes, sports administrators, coaches and football enthusiasts that Kaduna State is steadily reclaiming its position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting destinations.
According to him, the quality of work being carried out at the stadium reflects the governor’s determination to provide world-class sporting infrastructure capable of hosting both national and international competitions while creating an enabling environment for the discovery and nurturing of young talents.
He noted that for decades, Ahmadu Bello Stadium has remained one of Nigeria’s most historic sporting facilities, producing several athletes who went on to represent the country with distinction in various international competitions.
The SWAN president stated that the ongoing rehabilitation would not only restore the stadium to its former glory but also stimulate economic activities through sports tourism, create employment opportunities and encourage greater participation of youths in productive ventures.
He said Governor Uba Sani’s investment in sports infrastructure aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition sports as a viable sector 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.
“Sports remains one of the strongest platforms for youth engagement, peacebuilding and economic empowerment. By investing in modern sporting facilities, the governor is investing in the future of thousands of young people across Kaduna State.
“We sincerely appreciate His Excellency for giving sports the attention it deserves. This project will inspire athletes and provide opportunities for discovering new talents who will represent Kaduna State and Nigeria at higher levels.”
The association further urged Governor Sani not to relent in sustaining the current momentum, stressing that continuous investment in sports infrastructure, athlete development and grassroots competitions would consolidate the gains already being recorded across the state.
The SWAN president also called on the governor to continue supporting sports associations, schools and community-based competitions as part of efforts to build a sustainable sports ecosystem capable of producing future champions.
He maintained that consistent investment in sports would complement the administration’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 become a major hub for national sporting events, football competitions and athletics championships, thereby boosting Kaduna State’s profile as a centre of sporting excellence.
SWAN also appealed to stakeholders in the sports sector, corporate organisations and development partners to support the Kaduna State Government’s vision of revitalising sports and empowering young talents.
The association reaffirmed its readiness to continue promoting initiatives that advance sports development and pledged to partner with the government in highlighting programmes that contribute to the growth of sports in Kaduna State and Nigeria.
It added that Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to sports development would leave a lasting legacy, urging him to sustain the pace of ongoing projects and consolidate on the successes already recorded for the benefit of future generations.
