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Federal Government To Spend ₦24.6 Billion On Renovation Of ‘Abandoned’ Abuja Stadium.

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The Federal Government has earmarked ₦24.642 billion from the ₦203.603 billion budget of the National Sports Commission (NSC) in the 2026 Appropriation Bill for the upgrade of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

This allocation is part of the government’s renewed push to revive Nigeria’s aging sports infrastructure, with funding for the sector rising sharply under President Bola Tinubu’s “Budget of Restoration,” presented in December 2025. The sports sector’s allocation for 2026 surged by over 300% compared to the ₦78 billion approved in 2025.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the NSC, had indicated that work on the national stadium would start before the end of 2025, as part of broader efforts to bring Nigeria’s sporting facilities up to international standards.

The Moshood Abiola National Stadium, inaugurated in 2003 during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, has recently been deemed unsuitable for hosting the Super Eagles and other major international events, despite renovations between 2020 and 2022 under former Sports Minister Sunday Dare.

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During the last upgrade, Aliko Dangote contributed $1 million to restore the stadium’s main pitch, which included installing Pure Dynasty Paspalum grass, two digital scoreboards, 24 sprinklers, nursery beds, and a two-year maintenance plan under a public-private partnership. However, the pitch deteriorated within a year, forcing the Super Eagles to play home games at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Nigeria last played in Abuja on March 24, 2023, a 1–0 AFCON qualifier loss to Guinea-Bissau, prompting criticism of the stadium’s condition by former coach José Peseiro and players.

The 2026 budget proposal allocates ₦18.775 billion for the first phase of the main bowl rehabilitation, ₦5.8 billion for a high-performance athlete centre, and ₦65 million for internet, fibre optic, and LAN/WAN services at the stadium and other key sports facilities. Additionally, ₦15.5 billion is set aside for constructing a new sports secretariat within the stadium complex.

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Built at a cost of $360 million between 2000 and 2003 for the 8th African Games, the stadium has a capacity of 60,491 and features a lightweight roof, making it Nigeria’s largest sports facility despite years of neglect.

Beyond infrastructure, the NSC also budgeted for Nigeria’s participation in international competitions, including ₦4.223 billion for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, ₦5.105 billion for preparations for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, and ₦1 billion for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. Football-related expenses, covering the 2025 AFCON, the 2026 Women’s AFCON, and other FIFA competitions for both men’s and women’s teams, are projected at ₦14.2 billion.

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Tension In UK As Nigerians Push For INEC Chairman’s Removal Ahead Of 2027.

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A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.

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They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.

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The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.

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“My Nightclubs Are The Least Of What I Do” — Sir Uyi Fires Back At Critics.

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Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.

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He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.

According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.

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Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.

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Shock In Benue As Police Nab Seven Over Abduction Of JAMB Candidates.

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The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.

Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.

He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.

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According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.

Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.

He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.

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He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.

The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.

He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.

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