Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State says the construction of Warri Township Stadium in the State is already boosting local economic activities with 176 youths employed on the project site.
Speaking while inspecting the project, at the weekend, Governor Oborevwori assured the residents of timely and quality completion of the project in the State’s commercial city.
He said the ongoing project reconstruction was part of the State Government’s efforts to revamp the State’s sports infrastructure and promote athletic and other sports.
He expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress just as he said he was confident with the contractors’ capacity to deliver a world-class facility that would serve the people of Warri and beyond.
“We are confident that the contractor will deliver on time. A new indoor sports hall is under construction, and residents are already benefiting from the renovation.
“Once completed, Warri people will be proud, and visitors will enjoy a modern facility”, he said.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the stadium, once completed, would not only serve as a hub for sports and entertainment, but would also symbolise the town’s growing sports reputation, especially with Warri Wolves Football Club qualifying for the Premier League.
Governor Oborevwori disclosed that although the initial plan was to build an entirely new stadium, the Government opted for a comprehensive renovation of the existing structure due to limited available land in the area.
According to him, a hospitality suite is being considered as part of the modernisation efforts.
Facilities under reconstruction include the steelwork at the main bowl, a FIFA-standard football pitch, underground drainage systems, and an Olympic-size swimming pool, among others, he disclosed.
The governor said his visit marked a significant milestone in ensuring that contractors remain accountable for delivering quality work within the scheduled timeline.
Olaruwaju Adeleke, an engineer of Peculiar Concern Limited, the project contractor, assured that the stadium would be completed on time.
“We are three months into the project and have completed 100% of the steel fabrication and erection, except for a few open areas. Work is currently ongoing on the pitch,” Adeleke noted.
He projected that by December, the running track and pitch grassing would be completed. However, he clarified that while the stadium may not be ready for the current Premier League season, it is expected to be fully operational by the next.
“The Premier League season will start very soon, so we may not use the stadium for this season. But we are optimistic that Warri Wolves will return to their home ground next season,” he concluded.
