Kaduna Stadium redevelopment begins as Ahmadu Bello Stadium expands to 32,000 seats, boosting sports tourism and national development plans

The National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Kaduna State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to transfer the Ahmadu Bello Stadium to the state for immediate rehabilitation.

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The agreement, signed on Thursday following presidential approval, will expand the stadium’s capacity from 12,000 to 32,000 seats.

NSC Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko signed for the commission, while Governor Uba Sani signed on behalf of Kaduna State.

Speaking at the signing, Dikko said sports had recorded unprecedented growth under President Bola Tinubu.

“No fewer than 373 medals were won across sports in 2025, while over 140,000 jobs were created,” he said.

Dikko highlighted infrastructure as vital for sustaining the sports economy and promoting grassroots and elite development.

He praised Kaduna State for aligning with the federal vision by commencing stadium redevelopment.

“The governor has started major works at the site following presidential approval. This project aligns with the sports city vision, using Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, as a pilot,” Dikko said.

He added that the government had approved the establishment of the National Sports Infrastructure Development Board to mobilise funds for world-class sports facilities nationwide.

Discussions are ongoing regarding facilities in Lagos, Bauchi, and Ibadan, with other states expected to upgrade their stadiums to international standards.

Governor Sani described the redevelopment as transformative for Kaduna State.

“The upgraded stadium will attract top international sporting events, boost sports tourism, and stimulate economic activities,” he said.

He pledged the state’s full support to NSC to realise the federal government’s sports development vision.

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The governor reaffirmed Kaduna State’s commitment to harnessing sports as an economic driver and said the project is expected to be completed within eight months.