Niger govt begins facelift of Bako Kontagora Stadium to meet standard

Niger govt begins facelift of Bako Kontagora Stadium to meet standard

Abubakar Hassan

The Niger State Government has handed over the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna to sports facility construction company, Diamond Orange Limited, for renovation, as part of plans to upgrade the facility to FIFA standards.

The state Commissioner for Youth Affairs and overseeing commissioner for Sports Development, Jacob Baba Yisa who supervised the handover on Thursday, said the project reflects the state government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure and preparing the stadium to host the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matches and other sporting activities.

He disclosed that the renovation, approved by the state governor, will include the installation of a synthetic turf and an electronic scoreboard, bringing the facility in line with modern sporting standards.

On the financial aspects of the project, the commissioner noted that it is funded with public resources and assured that details of the financial commitment would be made available in due course, directing specific inquiries to relevant government authorities.

Also speaking during the handing over, the Chairman of Niger Tornadoes Football Club of Minna, Dr. Abubakar Abdullahi Kuso, expressed optimism that the upgrade of the Bako Kontagora Stadium will be completed on schedule, assuring that the team will play its home matches in Minna.

He emphasized that the project is aimed at delivering a FIFA-standard pitch, including a synthetic playing surface, the first of its kind in the state capital.

The Chairman credited the progress to the support of the Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, who he said has shown strong commitment to improving sports infrastructure and ensuring the club meets its targets.

He revealed that he held direct discussions with the governor upon his appointment, stressing the importance of having a standard home ground, amid concerns that the team might continue playing away from Minna.

On funding, the chairman clarified that the project is being handled by the Niger State Government, noting that the stadium is a state-owned facility and its development falls within the government’s responsibility.

Addressing concerns about possible delays, Dr. Kuso dismissed the need for an alternative venue, insisting that his focus remains on ensuring the successful completion of the project, which he believes will be delivered within the stipulated timeframe.

The contractor handling the project, Mr. Isaac Oboyano (MON), assured stakeholders of delivering the-standard facility within a short timeframe, emphasizing that the project will meet international standards in every aspect.

He explained the scope of the work to include the installation of a FIFA-standard synthetic pitch, complete with a solid base designed to withstand heavy rainfall, allowing matches to continue even during downpours. According to him, the pitch will also feature about 150 drainage spaces to ensure durability and efficiency.

Mr. Isaac further disclosed that the synthetic turf to be installed comes with a 10-year warranty, underscoring the commitment to quality and long-term use, stressing that no part of the project would be substandard, and assuring the public of top-quality delivery.

On the project timeline, he confirmed that work would commence immediately after taking possession of the site, with construction beginning the following day. He also expressed confidence that the facility would be ready within 40 days for Niger State to host a league matches.

Beyond the playing surface, the contractor noted that other facilities, including dressing rooms, would be upgraded to meet FIFA standards. Plans are also in place to improve the stadium’s perimeter by installing a three-meter-high wire mesh to prevent balls from straying into nearby buildings, while a new camera stand will be constructed.

The contractor also highlighted his company’s experience in similar projects across Nigeria ND beyond, including work at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, facilities in Bayelsa, and Prince Abubakar Audu University in Kogi State. He affirmed that the project timeline is realistic and achievable.

The development marks a significant step in the state’s drive to strengthen its sports sector, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the upgraded facility will boost local football and attract major competitions to Niger State.