The Ekiti State Government has commenced rehabilitation work at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti, upgrading its facilities to meet international standards.
The Technical Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, confirmed on Sunday that the project highlights Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to advancing sports in the state.
As part of the renovation, FIFA-standard synthetic grass imported from Italy is currently being installed by experts. Additionally, new tartan tracks for athletics will be laid to enhance the stadium’s functionality.
“The scope of work also includes the renovation of existing spectators’ stands, the construction of standard canopies over the uncovered stands, and a new administrative block for the State Sports Commission,” Osetoba stated.
She also noted that progress was being made on the 900-seater indoor sports hall initiated by the Oyebanji administration last year. Upon completion, the facility will accommodate 16 different sports, including basketball, badminton, handball, volleyball, and boxing.
Osetoba added that the state is preparing for the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Abeokuta later this year. A two-week intensive training camp has been planned to ensure Ekiti athletes are well-prepared for the competition.
“In a bid to reclaim Ekiti’s dominance in weightlifting, the government has also renovated the weightlifting gymnasium within the stadium,” she said.
The stadium upgrade is expected to position Ekiti as a hub for both national and international sporting events.
