Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has flagged off the redevelopment and remodelling of Osogbo Township Stadium, promising to build a standard stadium capable of accommodating all sporting activities that can bring development to the state.
The governor, while lamenting the deteriorating state that his administration met sports in Osun, boasted that the new stadium would host various field and track events after its completion.
“The stadium will be a beautiful edifice to behold, and everyone will be happy to be here,” Adeleke told the people of the state at flag-off ceremony held at the stadium sports complex in Osogbo on Tuesday.
According to him, ”Our dream is to build a stadium with the capacity to host various sporting events such as the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games, and, more importantly, to host some of our national teams, including the Super Eagles, in their various continental and international matches.”
Recounting the disturbing conditions he met sports facilities across Osun, the governor said, “When I came in as the governor of the state, this stadium was in terrible condition. The state of sports in Osun was appalling. We, therefore, decided to do some remarkable things that can boost the development of sports in the state.
“This project is not mere renovation but the redevelopment and remodeling of the state sports stadium to attain global standards. We have a big vision of Osun State with the best sporting facilities in the country.”
Making known other projects that would accompany the stadium, Adeleke said, “Let me inform you that the remodeling does not stop at the football pitch alone, where there will be three major pitches of international standard. It will also include pitches for other games such as volleyball, swimming, handball, hockey, basketball, and a host of others.
“The remodeling will also include a befitting indoor sports hall, hostels for the athletes, and a state-of-the-art 4-star hotel. We have built revenue generation into the entire project to ensure sustainability and short- and long-term viability. We envisage a self-sustaining, holistic sporting infrastructure.
“Our administration has a fully articulated sports development agenda. As part of the implementation process, we are putting up strong institutional structures. I am happy to inform you that we have finalized the legal framework for the creation of the Osun Sports Commission.
“This is to enhance the harmonious development and administration of all games in the state. Additionally, our government is creating a Sports Fund Trust to ensure sustainable sports financing. The legal structure is almost finalized.
“Aside from working on infrastructure and policy framework, the welfare of sportsmen and women is also paramount in our agenda. Going forward, our government has decided to reward all athletes who make the state proud at various championships.”
Adeleke promised to reward handsomely sportsmen and women who excel in their respective sporting activities, saying, “I will reward them based on their level of achievement.”
He added ,”We advise our budding and established athletes to train more and develop their skills. Osun’s sports sector is set for a silent revolution. Sports professionals should stay back in Osun to join the process.”
Addresing athletes in the state, he said, “I make bold to inform you that the two state teams, namely Osun United and Osun Babes Football Clubs, are receiving greater attention and support from the government. Information reaching me indicates that they are doing well in their various leagues. Remember, to whom much is given, much is expected. Do well in your various sports to encourage the government to do more for you.
“On the issue of contract athletes and coaches, I have directed immediate action to study and remedy the situation. The Deputy Governor is to submit a report to me on the matter for further action.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy Governor who doubles as the Commissioner for Sports in the state, Kola Adewusi, said the current administration is committed to developing sports.
The consultants for the stadium project, Messrs Maxwell International Ventures Ltd., promised to deliver the projects in the next twelve months.
