Wike says multi-sports complex will unlock economic opportunities and position Nigeria for international sporting glory
By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is set to host a world-class multi-event sports complex that officials say will generate jobs, diversify the economy, and position Nigeria as a global sporting contender.
On Monday, September 1, 2025, the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, flagged off construction of the facility in Kafe District, Abuja, describing it as a strategic investment in youth empowerment and economic growth.
“Sports is no longer just about fitness; it is big business,” Wike said at the foundation laying ceremony. “Countries like Brazil have built thriving economies by exporting talent, and Nigeria must not be left behind. But this can only happen when we have the facilities to nurture young athletes.”
The Minister explained that the project, which will be built to international standards, includes a standard football pitch, nine mini-pitches, four lawn tennis courts, basketball and squash facilities, an indoor sports hall, and supporting infrastructure. He added that the centre will create employment during its construction phase and serve as a hub for professional sports, tourism, and talent export upon completion.
“This is not the only one we are going to construct,” Wike added. “We will replicate these centres across other Area Councils of the FCT to spread the benefits.” He urged the contractor, Tegwa Tegwa Nigeria Limited, to complete the project within 12 months to coincide with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary in office, warning that substandard delivery would not be tolerated.
The Minister also called for a minute’s silence in honour of the late Mrs. Grace Adayilo, former Head of the FCTA Civil Service, describing her September passing as “very painful,” and paying tribute to her dedication to the administration.
In his goodwill message, Shehu Dikko, Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), hailed the initiative as a bold step toward reviving Nigeria’s domestic sports ecosystem. He disclosed that Abuja has submitted a bid to host the Commonwealth Games, stressing that the new centre will strengthen the city’s chances.
“What you are doing here is what we want nationwide,” Dikko said. “Sports is also about security and economic empowerment. Engaging youth gives them purpose, while also opening doors for Nigeria to compete globally.”
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised President Tinubu’s commitment to youth empowerment and applauded Wike’s vision. “This project is not just about creating a structure, but about creating possibilities,” she said.
Providing technical details, the Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, said the project sits on a 5.7-hectare site and is designed as a multifunctional hub to support both professional athletes and community sports enthusiasts. He stressed that it will also improve the “physical, mental, and emotional well-being of Abuja residents.”
Contractor to the project, Engr. Peter Tagwe, Managing Director of Tegwa Tegwa Nigeria Limited, assured the gathering that his company would deliver a state-of-the-art facility that meets global standards.
With construction now underway, stakeholders believe the Abuja sports city project will not only harness local talent but also serve as a springboard for Nigeria’s re-emergence on the global sporting stage.
