The remodelling of Osogbo City Stadium has passed the 40 per cent completion mark, with the contractor assuring that the upgraded playing surface is being developed to meet FIFA standards.
Maxwell International Ventures Limited disclosed the progress during a facility tour organised for members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Osun State chapter.
Project Manager Architect Jacob Oyekale said construction had progressed despite funding challenges and interruptions during the pre-election period, which affected the original completion schedule.
The stadium’s main bowl is being expanded from a reported capacity of 5,000 to 15,000 spectators, with covered stands planned to improve comfort for fans attending sporting events.
Oyekale also disclosed that the original plan to use natural grass for the main pitch had been changed to artificial turf following consultations. According to him, the imported turf is already available for installation.
The contractor also plans to provide Olympic-certified running tracks, two additional training pitches and a certified hockey field as part of the wider sports complex.
One training pitch will feature natural grass and a proposed four-lane track, while the other will use artificial turf. The project also includes provisions for an indoor sports hub and courts for handball, volleyball and basketball.
A hostel with accommodation for more than 100 people is another component of the development.
Oyekale said the long-term ambition was to position Osun State to host major competitions, including the National Sports Festival, and potentially attract international sporting events.
However, the FIFA-standard pitch remains a development target rather than a completed certification. The facility must meet the relevant requirements before any formal approval can be confirmed.
If completed as planned, the expanded stadium could provide more opportunities for football, athletics and other sports in Osun State.
For now, the contractor’s next challenge is to maintain progress, address funding-related delays and deliver the promised facilities within a realistic timeframe.
