By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau has expressed his satisfaction with the progress being made at Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi, Benue State.
He highlighted the importance of having multiple stadiums in Nigeria where Grade A matches involving Super Eagles can be played.
"It is becoming a major source of worry to me and other Nigerians that in a country like Nigeria, we have only one stadium where we can play grade A matches involving Super Eagles.
"So when I heard that the Governor has awarded contract for the upgrade of facilities at the Aper Aku Stadium, I hurriedly came to talk to him to see the extent to which we can come in to assist and I must confirm that am really happy with the quality of work on ground".
The NFF President said, the Federation has a technical director who is working hand in hand with the contractors to ensure that the quality of work is not compromised so that in the nearest future, the facility would serve as an alternative stadium for Super Eagles matches.
"I am really desirous to make sure that in the shortest possible time, we should have an alternative stadium to Uyo township stadium and with what am seeing on ground, I believe that alternative will be Makurdi".
Gusau assured that considering the Governor's commitment, the Federation would support him to achieve the dream.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia emphasized the unity and economic benefits that sports, particularly football, can bring to the state and country.
He expressed commitment to reinventing the Governor's Cup competition to discover and develop young talents.
On his part, the Director and Chief Executive Officer of Monimichelle contractors working on the stadium upgrade assured that they are prioritizing quality and will meet the project deadline.
He explained that the pitch at Aper Aku Stadium has been converted from natural to artificial turf to reduce maintenance costs, adding that high-quality grass would be used at Aper Aku Stadium for the first time in Africa.
The collaboration between the NFF, the Benue State Government, and the contractors aims to elevate football infrastructure and opportunities in Nigeria.
