By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has flagged off the construction of a new multi-event sports centre in Kafe District of the territory. The foundation laying ceremony, which took place on Monday, September 1, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the FCT’s efforts to promote sports development and economic growth, according to Rabi Musa Umar, Assistant Director, Press (Office of the Minister) on Monday.
Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Wike emphasized the evolving role of sports beyond physical fitness, highlighting its significant economic potential. He noted that sports has become a key sector that can drive economic growth and development, citing Brazil’s success in exporting talented players and generating revenue from sports. The Minister emphasized that the project is a key initiative aimed at empowering the youth, creating employment opportunities, and diversifying the economy of the FCT.
The new sports centre is designed to be a comprehensive hub for various athletic disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball, lawn tennis, squash, and table tennis, all built to international standards. Minister Wike said, “If you look at the concept, it is very holistic. That’s why we call it multi-events sports centre. It has everything you can think about, any kind of sports.”
The Minister noted that this is not the only sports centre the FCT Administration plans to construct, confirming plans for future facilities in other Area Councils to ensure widespread access to sporting infrastructure for Abuja’s youth. He urged the contractor to complete the project ahead of the scheduled 12-month timeline and to coincide with President Tinubu’s third anniversary in office. Minister Wike stressed the importance of timely and quality delivery, warning that failure to meet standards would result in the termination of future contracts with the FCT Administration.
The Minister took a moment to pay tribute to the late Head of FCTA Civil Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who recently passed away. He described her death as very painful and noted that she was committed to the success of the FCT Administration.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, commended Minister Wike for investing in the project and pledged the commission’s full support. He noted that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for sports in the country and that the commission plans to develop 40 similar centres across Nigeria.
The construction of the multi-event sports centre is expected to provide a world-class facility for athletes and sports enthusiasts in the FCT. The project is a significant step towards promoting sports development and economic growth in the territory. With this initiative, the FCT is poised to become a hub for sports excellence and economic growth.
