Shaibu Calls for Ban on Non-Sport Events at Stadiums

Philip Shaibu, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports in Nigeria, has demanded an immediate prohibition of political and religious activities at national stadiums across the country. This demand was made in a statement issued by his special assistant on media, Ben Ogbemudia.

Shaibu warned that the continued use of sports facilities for non-sporting events is accelerating the deterioration of stadiums, which were primarily built for training and developing athletes. He recalled his tenure as Deputy Governor of Edo State, during which he supervised the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, emphasizing efforts made to maintain the facility for athletic use.

Shaibu highlighted that the situation has worsened following disagreements with former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, particularly after a concert by Nigerian singer Rema that allowed heavy vehicles and equipment onto the pitch, causing damage and violating contractor warranty agreements. He urged the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation to collaborate in protecting and restoring sports infrastructure nationwide.