Sports Development : Wike Begins Construction Of Multi-Sports Center

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Dr Nyesom Wike, has laid foundation of a world-class multi-sports center at Kafe District, Abuja, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda of youth empowerment and sports development.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Wike said the project is designed to provide opportunities for young Nigerians in different sporting activities including basketball, volleyball, football, lawn tennis, squash, and table tennis, among others.

Wike who emphasized that the government will partner with private investors for the management of the facility to ensure sustainability, noted that the facility will meet international standards and serve as a platform to harness talents, create jobs, and boost the nation’s sports economy.

He warned the contractors handling the project against poor execution, and urged them to deliver the first phase of the project by June 2026, ahead of President Tinubu’s third anniversary celebration.

“This money is not for you to go and marry another wife or pay school fees,” Wike cautioned the contractors. “It is for you to finish this job on time and deliver quality. If you don’t do it well, that will be the end of your contract in the FCT.”

The Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as “a legacy of opportunity, unity, and excellence for generations unborn.”

She described the initiative as more than just a structure but a symbol of possibilities that will transform the sporting landscape of the nation’s capital.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko said the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, which seeks to reposition sports as a driver of economic growth.

He highlighted the “three R’s” strategy, reset, refocus, and relaunch, aimed at grassroots sports development, infrastructure expansion, and creating over three million direct and indirect jobs through the sports economy.

“Sports is not just entertainment, it is an economy. If we must secure our nation and empower our youth, we must invest massively in grassroots sports infrastructure,” he said, adding that similar projects are being planned across the 36 states and the FCT.

On his part, the Managing Director of Tegwa Nigeria Limited, Mr Peter Otegwa, whose company is handling the project, pledged to deliver the facility to international standards within the agreed time frame.

“This multi-sports center will be a hub for excellence, talent discovery, and economic opportunity. We are committed to employing cutting-edge techniques, engaging local labor, and ensuring that this project stands the test of time,” he assured.

The Multi-Sports Center is expected to host both national and international competitions, serve as a training ground for young athletes, and boost Abuja’s chances of hosting global sporting events, including Nigeria’s recent bid to host the Commonwealth Games.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji