By Olamide Awoyinfa
Ekiti State Government has embarked on an extensive renovation project at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti, featuring the installation of a synthetic pitch and a new tartan track.
Dr. Olusola Osetoba, the Technical Adviser to the State Governor on Sports Development, announced the project in a statement. She revealed that the refurbishment would involve laying FIFA-standard synthetic grass imported from Italy and installing certified athletics running tracks, elevating the stadium to international standards.
Dr. Osetoba emphasized Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s dedication to advancing sports in the state, stating that the upgraded facilities would enable the stadium, previously barred from hosting matches by the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) due to its subpar pitch, to accommodate home games for Ekiti Queens and Ekiti United, as well as international events.
On Friday, Governor Biodun Oyebanji visited the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium to assess the progress of its ongoing renovation. During the tour, he reviewed the upgrades being made to the facility, including the soon-to-be-installed AstroTurf synthetic grass and other improvements throughout the stadium. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to using sports as a means to drive economic progress and enhance human development. Additionally, the Governor expressed gratitude to the two state teams, Ekiti United and Ekiti Queens, for their patience and support despite the challenges they’ve faced due to the state’s limitations.
The renovation project encompasses upgrading the spectators’ stands with standard canopies, constructing a suitable administrative block for the State Sports Commission within the stadium complex, and progressing work on the 900-seater indoor sports hall initiated last year. The multi-purpose hall will host 16 different sports, including basketball, badminton, handball, volleyball, and boxing, fostering sports development in the state.
Regarding preparations for the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival, “Ogun 2025,” scheduled for later this year in Abeokuta, Dr. Osetoba affirmed Ekiti State’s readiness to compete and secure accolades. The State Sports Commission has organized a two-week intensive training camp for the state’s contingent.
Commending Governor Oyebanji’s unwavering support, Dr. Osetoba expressed gratitude for his provision of a 30-seater Coaster bus, which has significantly improved athletes’ transportation to and from competitions. She also noted that the administration has refurbished the weightlifting gymnasium at the stadium and that the Governor personally donated a set of basketball uprights worth millions of Naira last year, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in sports and sustainable development at both grassroots and elite levels.
