By Sunday Apah
In a bid to enhance sports infrastructure and foster athletic development in Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori visited the Warri Township Stadium on Saturday to assess ongoing reconstruction efforts.
During his inspection, Governor Oborevwori spoke with journalists, expressing his satisfaction with the progress made and reaffirming his dedication to delivering the project on time and with high quality.
He expressed confidence in the contractors’ ability to create a world-class facility that will cater to the people of Warri and the surrounding areas, highlighting that the project has already generated local economic activity, with over 176 youths employed on-site.
“We are optimistic that the contractor will meet the deadline. The construction of a new indoor sports hall is underway, and the community is already reaping the benefits of the renovations. Once finished, the people of Warri will take great pride in their modern facility, which will also attract visitors,” he stated.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that the completed stadium would serve not only as a center for sports and entertainment but also as a testament to Warri’s growing reputation in the sports arena, especially as Warri Wolves Football Club is set to compete in the Premier League.
The governor revealed that although the initial plan included constructing a brand-new stadium, the government decided on a comprehensive renovation of the existing facility due to land constraints in the area. He noted that plans for a hospitality suite are also being considered as part of the modernization efforts.
The ongoing reconstruction includes significant upgrades such as steelwork in the main bowl, a FIFA-standard football pitch, underground drainage systems, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool, among other facilities.
Governor Oborevwori remarked that his visit is a crucial step in ensuring that contractors are held accountable for delivering quality work within the established timeline.
Engineer Olaruwaju Adeleke from Peculiar Concern Limited, the project contractor, assured the governor and attendees that the stadium would be finished on schedule.
“We are now three months into the project and have successfully completed 100% of the steel fabrication and erection, aside from a few open areas. Work is progressing on the pitch as well,” Engineer Adeleke reported.
He indicated that the running track and pitch grassing would be completed by December. However, he clarified that while the stadium might not be ready for the current Premier League season, it is expected to be fully operational by the following season.
“The Premier League season is approaching, so we may not be able to utilize the stadium for this year. Nevertheless, we are hopeful that Warri Wolves will return to their home ground next season,” he concluded.
