In anticipation of the forthcoming National Sports Festival, the Ogun State government, through its Chief Economy Adviser to the Governor and Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Dapo Okubadejo, has unveiled ambitious plans to transform the state's stadiums and sports facilities, aiming to host the most remarkable sport festival
Speaking at the Monthly Guest Night Forum organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) State Council in Abeokuta on Wednesday , Hon. Dapo Okubadejo highlighted the government's commitment to revamp existing infrastructure across the state's three senatorial districts.
He emphasized that meticulous audits have been conducted, with comprehensive work programs underway to refurbish various sports facilities.
"The financial aspect of the festival will be jointly shouldered by the state government and the Federal Ministry of Sports," Okubadejo announced, assuring that a dedicated committee has been diligently seeking sponsors to support the event.
In a bid to elevate sports standards, Okubadejo emphasized the collaborative efforts to upgrade facilities.
According to him" the Existing infrastructures at stadiums that we have across the three senatorial districts are currently undergoing some refurbishment that will happen in preparation for the National Sports Festival.
"Things have changed from that time to now. We are planning to do a lot of work in this area and the audit has already been done of all the sports facilities in the state. Various work programmes have been developed and the costing for the refurbishment of different sport facilities is also taking place now.
“Our track records of performance in other areas should not give you any worries as to the fact that we are going to do best ever sport game in Nigeria this year in Ogun state.
“The Festival will traditionally be financed in conjunction with the federal ministry of sports and largely is an opportunity to upgrade and improve on our sport facilities.
"LOC has already been commissioned, already been working and have reached out to a lot of sponsors that are willing to provide funding."
Earlier in the event, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, the State Chairman of NUJ, reflected on the Union's progress under his leadership, attributing achievements to proactive initiatives and effective management of Union properties.
He also lauded the state governor's pledge to refurbish the Union's Secretariat and erect a new structure on its permanent site.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the 'Ace of Initiative' Award to Commissioner followed by the cutting of a birthday cake by the Ogun NUJ in his honour.