PRESS RELEASE:
Governor Adeleke launches new Osogbo stadium, unveils sports programme
OSOGBO - 02/11/2025- Osunstate.gov.ng
Governor Ademola Adeleke has launched the renovation of the Osogbo Stadium to a world-class standard, while unveiling the sports sector agenda of his administration.
The event held at the stadium also witnessed the distribution of prizes and cash gifts to sportspersons from Osun State.
The governor, accompanied by top government officials and sports personalities, said that this project is not just a renovation but a reconstruction and remodeling of the sports stadium in the state to reach world standards.
Asserting that his government has a grand vision for Osun State with the best sports facilities in the country, the governor assured the public that "when this development is completed, the stadium will be a beautiful building to behold.
"Our dream is to build a stadium with the capacity to host various sporting events such as the National Sports Festival, the National Youth Games and most importantly, host some of our national teams including the Super Eagles in their various continental and international matches," he told the cheering crowd. "The redevelopment will not stop at the football field, where there will be three (03) main international level fields, fields for other sports such as volleyball, swimming, handball, hockey, basketball and many others will also be included".
"The redevelopment will also include a suitable indoor sports hall, hostels for athletes and a 4-star top-notch hotel. We are integrating revenue generation throughout the project to ensure sustainability with short and long-term viability. "We are looking at an independent and holistic sports infrastructure," the governor said.
The governor then spoke about his program for the sports sector: "Our administration has a fully articulated sports development program. As part of the implementation process, we are creating strong institutional structures. I am happy to inform you that we have finalized the legal framework for the establishment of the Osun Sports Commission.
"It is to promote the harmonious development and administration of all sports in the state. In addition, our government is establishing a Sports Trust Fund to ensure sustainable funding for sports. The legal framework is almost complete. "Apart from working on infrastructure and policy framework, the welfare of athletes is also paramount in our agenda. In the future, our government has decided to award all athletes who have brought pride to the state in various championships. They will be generously rewarded according to their level of achievement.
"We have advised our youth and experienced athletes to train more and develop their skills." The Osun sports sector is set for a quiet revolution. Sports professionals are expected to remain in Osun to participate in the process.
"I wish to inform you that two (2) public teams, namely Osun United and Osun Babes Football Clubs are receiving increased attention and support from the government. Information I have received shows that they are doing well in their various leagues.
"On the issue of contracted athletes and coaches, I have ordered immediate action to investigate and rectify the situation." The Deputy Governor should submit a report to me on the matter for further action," the governor said. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Governor, who also served as Commissioner for Sports Development, Prince Kola Adewusi, explained in his remarks that the project has many facilities, including two training grounds and dedicated facilities for all matches.
Describing the inauguration as the beginning of a sporting revolution in Osun State, Prince Adewusi said Osun will be ready to host national sporting competitions.
According to him, athletes who fled the state will be encouraged to return home, promising that Osun will occupy a prominent position in the Nigerian sporting arena.
The project has a completion period of 12 months.
Signed by:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson for the Governor of Osun State. @txekso
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