Nigeria Aims to Build 6 More FIFA-Approved Stadiums

Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, has outlined plans to build at least six FIFA-approved stadiums across Nigeria, aiming to improve the country’s sports infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance facilities nationwide....CONTINUE READING>>>

The project is designed to encourage private sector investment in multi-purpose sports venues, with the goal of keeping the stadiums active year-round. By generating consistent revenue, the stadiums will be able to sustain operations and maintain themselves.

Dikko stressed that Nigeria faces challenges in maintaining stadiums that meet FIFA standards, as many of the current facilities are in poor condition. Under the new strategy, upgrading and maintaining sports infrastructure will be a key priority.As an expert in Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), Dikko explained that a critical part of the plan is to attract private investors to breathe new life into the country’s sports venues.

“We need a framework that ensures these stadiums are constantly in use, with the private sector contributing to their upkeep and operation,” Dikko stated.He noted that past stadium projects often focused only on the basics—playing fields, tracks, and seating—without considering additional services like hotels and restaurants that could generate additional revenue. “We’ve learned that simply building sports facilities isn’t enough; we need to think bigger,” he added.

Dikko highlighted that the National Sports Commission controls over 2,500 hectares of land across Nigeria. These plots will be used strategically to draw in private investors who can help revitalize the stadiums and surrounding areas.The goal is to have at least one fully FIFA-compliant stadium in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This would ensure that the country has a minimum of six stadiums capable of hosting international events with short notice.

Dikko emphasized that this vision is achievable, with the immediate focus on upgrading the Abuja stadium and improving operations at the Lagos National Stadium.