Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, "The Cathedral," to wear new look

Posted : 14 January 2025

The Enugu State Government has announced that it has earmarked N10 billion for the renovation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.

Lloyd Ekweremmadu, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, disclosed this on Friday in Enugu during the ministry’s first management meeting for 2025.

Ekweremmadu stated that Governor Peter Mbah is committed to developing sports in the state, particularly at the grassroots level.

“Enugu State Government has allocated the sum of N10 billion for the refurbishment of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, which has been included in the 2025 budget.

“In addition, N3 billion has been budgeted for the Awgu Games Village, while N200 million will be allocated for upgrading facilities at the Enugu Sports Council Secretariat, located on Nkpokiti Road in the Independence Layout, Enugu,” he said.

Ekweremmadu further revealed that the government plans to construct an Olympic-size swimming pool within the stadium premises and rehabilitate the Indoor Hall of the stadium.

He added that these projects would enhance the state’s capacity to host the 26th edition of the National Sports Festival in 2026.

“The ministry will dedicate this year to preparing for the hosting of the 2025 Coal-City International Marathon.

“We are already in discussions with a reputable consultant who will partner with the state to organize the marathon,” Ekweremmadu said.

According to him, international athletes from across the globe will participate in the marathon.

Ekweremmadu also highlighted the state’s achievements in the sports sector in 2024, describing them as commendable.

“The ministry achieved significant milestones in 2024, including hosting several sporting events such as the 1st National Council on Sports Summit.

“Rangers International Football Club also emerged as champions of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

“We hosted the first Mixed Martial Arts Caged Fight, where Nigerian fighters competed alongside international fighters from Cameroon, Senegal, Kenya, and Congo.

“The state also organized the South-East Boxing Championship, the National Under-15 NPFL Youth Football Competition, and the Coal-City Half Marathon, among other events.”

Ekweremmadu noted that the ministry exceeded its 2023 revenue target in 2024 by 300%, generating N20 million—just N4 million short of its 2024 target of N24 million.

The commissioner commended the ministry’s staff for their commitment and dedication to duty and urged them to work even harder in 2025.

Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, "The Cathedral," to wear new look

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