Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide (Odidiomo) has commended the Federal Government for officially handing over the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, popularly known as Liberty Stadium, to the Oyo State Government.
The stadium, which is the largest in the Southwest according to Olajide is expected to attract foreign direct investment, improve participation in sports, and unite the region in sports development.
Odidiomo, who represents Ibadan North-west/Ibadan South-west federal constituency of Oyo State in a statement made available to newsmen by his Special Adviser on media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha also praised the efforts of the immediate past Minister for Youth and Sports, Chief Sunday Dare, in facilitating the process.
He described the move as a game-changer for sports development in the southwest as the stadium has the potential to attract foreign investment, create jobs, and unite the region in sports development.
According to him, Liberty Stadium falls under the Jurisdiction of my federal constituency and I am highly elated that this monumental edifice has eventually gotten the attention it deserves.
“For years, the neglect of the Wembley styled stadium has been a source of great concern to me.”
“The eventual handing over of Liberty Stadium to Oyo State is a testament to Gov. Seyi Makinde’s commitment to grassroots sports development and also part of the federal government’s efforts to decentralize sports development and empower state governments to take ownership of sports facilities,” he said.
The federal lawmaker who said the move aligns with his belief that the state government is better positioned to manage the stadium, attract investment to the state and the region at large also commend the federal government and the Oyo State Government for their efforts in making the handing over a reality.
The Liberty Stadium, which has a capacity of over 20,000 seats, is expected to host international sports events, concerts, and other activities, generating revenue for the state government, the stadium’s renovation and modernization is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.
