Osogbo stadium remodelling over 40 per cent complete, says contractor
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –
The contractor handling the remodelling of Osogbo City Stadium, Maxwell International Ventures Limited, has disclosed that the project is more than 40 per cent complete, with plans to develop the playing pitch to meet the standards of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
The Project Manager, Architect Jacob Oyekale, disclosed this during a facility tour with members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Osun State chapter. He attributed the delay in completion to inadequate funding and the suspension of construction activities during the pre-election period.
Oyekale said the project was expected to be completed within a year, adding that the stadium’s seating capacity was being expanded from 5,000 to 15,000 spectators, with covered stands to provide a more comfortable viewing experience.
He disclosed that the initial plan to use natural grass for the main playing field had been changed to artificial turf following consultations. He added that the imported turf was already available for installation.
The project manager said the facility would also feature Olympic-certified running tracks, two additional training pitches, a certified hockey field, and courts for handball, volleyball and basketball, alongside plans for an indoor sports hub.
He added that the project included a hostel with a capacity of more than 100 beds, while a new grandstand design was being considered to eliminate columns obstructing spectators’ views and provide VIP booths with private convenience facilities.
Oyekale identified hosting the National Sports Festival as one of the state’s immediate ambitions, noting that the facility could help position Osun to host national and international sporting competitions while supporting grassroots sports development and the training of athletes and coaches.
He said the project could also stimulate economic activities by attracting visitors to Osogbo and creating business opportunities for hotels, food vendors and tourism operators. He added that the contractor was working with relevant state ministries and agencies to ensure the facility met the state’s requirements.
