There’s a saying that you can only blame the chicken after you’ve chased away the fox.

Recently, the media has been buzzing about the Super Eagles being held hostage for over 20 hours at an abandoned airport in Libya, typically used for pilgrimage travel. This incident drew widespread condemnation, leading to CAF removing the match from its schedule that weekend. While the CAF Disciplinary Committee will address the matter, it has already sparked diplomatic tensions.

The Minister of Sports took swift action, collaborating with the Minister of Foreign Affairs to ensure the safe return of the Super Eagles and their officials. Now that they are home, and while we await CAF’s decisions, it’s time to address some hard truths the Federal Government may not want to hear.

Historically, Nigeria has successfully hosted numerous international events, including the All-Africa Games, FIFA U17 and U20 World Cups, and AFCON tournaments, without significant complaints from visiting teams. Even during challenging times, when Nigerian teams faced defeats abroad, international visitors rarely reported being abandoned.

Yet, it’s concerning that when FIFA and CAF assess stadiums in Africa, only the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo meets the standards for hosting international matches. Countries like Morocco boast six certified stadiums, South Africa has eleven, and others like Algeria and Egypt have several as well. In contrast, Nigeria, often seen as a continental powerhouse, can only present one stadium, which was built by a state government. Most federal stadiums are in disrepair. If complaints persist about Uyo, we must reconsider our options. Our current luck won’t last forever, and it’s crucial to put our thinking caps on.

It’s time to declare a state of emergency for the reconstruction of our major stadiums in Abuja and Lagos to avoid further embarrassment.

The Abuja National Stadium

The Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, opened in 2003 for the 8th All-Africa Games, was designed to be a centerpiece for Nigerian sports, with a capacity of over 60,000. It was initially a significant investment, boasting modern facilities and aiming to inspire Nigeria’s youth.

However, years of neglect have overshadowed its potential. The stadium suffers from poor maintenance, with an unfit playing surface and vandalized stands. This neglect highlights deeper issues in Nigeria’s sports infrastructure, such as inadequate funding and a lack of coherent management strategies.

The National Stadium Surulere, Lagos

Opened in 1972 for the 1973 All-Africa Games, the National Stadium in Surulere was once a symbol of national pride, hosting numerous prestigious events like the 1980 African Cup of Nations. However, over the years, it has faced decline due to mismanagement and lack of investment. Facilities became outdated, and the once-vibrant venue fell into disrepair.

Despite recent efforts to revitalize the stadium, progress has been slow. Previous renovation plans have faced numerous obstacles, including funding issues and stalled private partnerships.

A Path Forward

Reviving these iconic stadiums requires transparent funding allocation and effective management. Engaging reputable private partners and involving local communities in maintenance can help restore these facilities to their former glory.

The Abuja National Stadium, despite its challenges, may be easier to revitalize than the one in Lagos. Regular maintenance and sufficient funding are essential to ensure the safety of spectators and athletes.

To effectively overcome these issues, the Nigerian government should seek private sector investment and enhance security measures at these stadiums. Hosting more international events would also optimize facility usage.

Now is the time for decisive action to prevent further embarrassment and restore Nigeria’s stature in the sporting world.

Things FIFA/CAF Needs To Approve A Stadium:

Electronic advertising boards

2. Electronic ticketing system

3. Modern dressing rooms

4. A 5-star hotel within a radius

5. A 5-star hospital within radius

6. Underground watering system (sprinklers like in high end leagues)
7. A modern evacuation system

8. Ample/secure parking lot

9. Modern stands & seats ( Bucket seats system)

10. Pitch maintenance plan

11. Fully functional floodlights able to host night matches

12. Modern press boxes to host journalists

13. Barriers between the stands and pitch

14. A fully functional electronic viewing screen

15. Reliable source of power.