Kaduna State is positioning itself to become a major sports destination in Nigeria through the reconstruction of sporting facilities, infrastructure upgrades and talent development.
The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, disclosed this during an inspection tour of ongoing sports projects in the state by members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
Maiyaki said the reconstruction of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium was part of efforts by Governor Uba Sani’s administration to reposition Kaduna as a destination for local and international sporting events.
He said the reconstructed stadium would have a seating capacity of 32,000, making it the second-largest stadium in Nigeria after the National Stadium in Abuja.
According to him, the facility would also serve as a tourist attraction and help stimulate investment and employment.
“Some of the greatest football stars in Nigeria started their careers in Kaduna, particularly at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium. We are going to reflect this history when the project is completed,” he said.
The commissioner said the second phase of the project would include hotel facilities for visiting athletes, adding that some private investors had already expressed interest.
He expressed optimism that the stadium would be completed by December, barring unforeseen circumstances.
Maiyaki said the revitalisation of sports facilities would help revive sporting activities, create employment, increase tourism and attract investment.
He attributed the renewed development of sports infrastructure to the improved security situation in the state.
“The attainment of peace in the last three years is the major cornerstone. This underscores the commitment of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, towards making sure that Kaduna is no longer what it used to be in the past,” he said.
He said SWAN’s decision to hold its 2026 National Triennial Congress in Kaduna was an indication of growing confidence in the state’s security and business environment.
“Kaduna is peaceful; Kaduna is homely for anyone who wants to live or do business in Kaduna,” Maiyaki said.
The delegation also inspected the upgraded Uba Sani Township Stadium.
Former cycling champion and eight-time medal winner for Kaduna State, Samaila Usman, said the stadium has a seating capacity of 10,000 and would host local league matches.
He said the facility included dressing rooms for both teams, a referees’ room, media facilities, a conference centre and toilet facilities.
Usman added that the governor was also supporting grassroots sports by providing stipends to young people showing commitment and potential.
SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, commended the state government for the projects and stressed the importance of peace to sports development.
“Without peace, sports cannot even thrive. And we support him 100 per cent; we declare our support for His Excellency’s re-election because he has done well,” Benjamin said.
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