As part of efforts to revamp Delta State’s sports infrastructure, promote athletic and other sports, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Saturday inspected the ongoing reconstruction of the Warri Township Stadium.
Fielding questions from journalists during the inspection, Governor Oborevwori expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and reaffirmed his commitment to quality and timely delivery of the project.
He said he was confident in the contractors’ capacity to deliver a world-class facility that would serve the people of Warri and beyond, noting that the project was already boosting local economic activities, with over 176 youths employed on-site.
“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.
Oborevwori emphasized that the stadium, once completed, would not only serve as a hub for sports and entertainment but also symbolize the town’s growing sports reputation, especially with Warri Wolves Football Club qualifying for the Premier League.
The Governor 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 limitation of land in the area, adding that a hospitality suite was being considered as part of the modernization plan.
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.
Governor Oborevwori said his visit marked a significant milestone in ensuring that contractors remained accountable for delivering quality work within the scheduled timeline.
Also speaking, Engr. Olaruwaju Adeleke 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 percent of the steel fabrication and erection, except for a few open areas. Work is currently ongoing on the pitch”, Engr. Adeleke said.
He projected that by December, the running track and pitch grassing would have been completed, even as he clarified that while the stadium might not be ready for the current Premier League season, it was expected to be fully operational by the next season.
“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 added.
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