SWAN President Salutes Uba Sani Over Upgrade Of Ahmadu Bello Stadium.

The President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, has commended Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for the ongoing upgrade of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, describing it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.

Benjamin made the commendation during an unscheduled visit to the stadium on Monday to assess the level of work being carried out.

He said the renovation and upgrade of facilities at the iconic stadium had rekindled hope among athletes, coaches and sports administrators that Kaduna State was reclaiming its position as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting destinations.

According to him, the quality of work being carried out reflects the governor’s determination to provide world-class sporting infrastructure capable of hosting national and international competitions, while also creating an enabling environment for the discovery of young talents.

He noted that for decades, the Ahmadu Bello Stadium had remained one of Nigeria’s most historic sporting facilities, producing athletes who represented the country with distinction in various international competitions.

The SWAN president stated that the rehabilitation would not only restore the stadium to its former glory but also stimulate economic activities through sports tourism, create employment opportunities and encourage greater youth participation.

He said Governor Sani’s investment in sports infrastructure aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition sports as a viable sector for economic growth, national unity and youth development.

“The ongoing work at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium is highly commendable. It is evident that Governor Uba Sani is committed to restoring the lost glory of sports in Kaduna State. The quality of work we have seen speaks volumes about the seriousness attached to the project,” Benjamin said.

“Sports remains one of the strongest platforms for youth engagement, peacebuilding and economic empowerment. By investing in modern sporting facilities, the governor is investing in the future of thousands of young people across Kaduna State.

“We sincerely appreciate His Excellency for giving sports the attention it deserves. This project will inspire athletes and provide opportunities for discovering new talents who will represent Kaduna State and Nigeria at higher levels.”

The association further urged Governor Sani to sustain the current momentum, stressing that continuous investment in sports infrastructure, athlete development and grassroots competitions would consolidate the gains already recorded in the state.

Benjamin also called on the governor to continue supporting sports associations, schools and community-based competitions as part of efforts to build a sustainable sports ecosystem capable of producing future champions.

The association expressed confidence that upon completion, the upgraded Ahmadu Bello Stadium would once again become a major hub for national sporting events, football competitions and athletics championships.

SWAN also appealed to stakeholders, corporate organisations and development partners to support the Kaduna State Government’s vision of revitalising sports and empowering young talents.

The association reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the government in promoting initiatives that advance sports development in Kaduna State and Nigeria.