Stop holding political events at national stadiums – Philip Shaibu
NIS CEO Calls for Ban on Political, Religious Activities at National Stadiums
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called for an immediate ban on political and religious activities at the MKO Abiola National Stadium and other national sports facilities across Nigeria. Shaibu warned that the ongoing use of these venues for non-sporting events is contributing to their deterioration.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Ben Ogbemudia, Shaibu emphasized that stadiums were designed primarily for the training and development of athletes, and it is vital to preserve these facilities for their intended purpose.
Shaibu expressed concern regarding the diminishing number of stadiums in Nigeria that meet international standards. He pointed out that the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium is currently the only facility in the country that fully complies with FIFA requirements for hosting international matches.
Reflecting on his time as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Shaibu noted that efforts were made to maintain the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, particularly its athletics track, which was under warranty. However, he indicated that the situation worsened following disagreements with former Governor Godwin Obaseki, which led to the stadium being used for a concert by Nigerian artist Rema.
Shaibu raised issues surrounding the concert, stating that heavy vehicles and equipment had been allowed onto the pitch, causing significant damage and breaching the contractor’s warranty agreement. “Today, the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium can no longer host international matches unless major remediation works are carried out,” he said.
He urged both the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to collaborate closely with the NIS to safeguard and restore sports infrastructure across the nation.
