Sports lovers in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory have called for urgent upgrading of facilities at the Bwari Township Stadium, expressing concern over its declining condition.
The enthusiasts made the appeal in separate interviews on Thursday in Bwari, noting that the stadium’s current state limits its potential as a key hub for grassroots sports development.
They described the facility as an underutilised asset for youth engagement and urged authorities to step in and restore it to proper working condition.
The stadium, which hosts local competitions such as the Nigeria Youth League Cup and the Bwari FA Cup, was renovated in 2023 by the FCT Football Association as part of its Sustainable Development Goals initiative.
The upgrade at the time included the installation of bucket seats with a capacity of over 3,000 spectators and the construction of a perimeter fence to meet standard match requirements.
However, observations at the facility show that the playing surface has become uneven, with patches of worn-out grass affecting its quality.
It was also noted that poor drainage infrastructure may hinder activities during the rainy season due to waterlogging.
A grassroots football coach, Manasseh Dani, said the stadium once served as a lively centre for sporting activities and youth development in the area.
He lamented that inadequate maintenance has reduced its appeal, causing a decline in participation compared to previous years.
According to him, the venue previously attracted players from different parts of the FCT, especially after its renovation, but interest has dropped due to better alternatives elsewhere.
Dani stressed the need for improved maintenance and upgraded facilities to restore the stadium’s relevance to local sports development.
He also highlighted funding and poor management as major challenges limiting the growth of the facility, adding that it has not evolved in line with the area’s increasing population.
The coach expressed optimism that, with proper investment, the community could still produce talented athletes capable of excelling at higher levels.
A football enthusiast, Grace Yamusa, said the stadium remains popular among young people but lacks basic infrastructure needed for comfortable sporting activities.
She pointed out that facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and water supply are either inadequate or not functioning properly.
Yamusa also noted that parts of the spectator stands require repairs, even though the environment is generally kept clean.
Another sports lover, Amos Auta, raised concerns about poor lighting and inadequate security around the stadium, which he said limits its use to daytime activities.
He warned that the absence of proper lighting exposes users to safety risks during evening hours.
Auta urged relevant authorities to prioritise rehabilitation of the facility, saying improved sports infrastructure would help engage youths positively and reduce social vices.
He added that with proper investment and management, the stadium could be transformed into a modern sports centre capable of nurturing future talents.
He also called on private organisations and community leaders to support efforts aimed at reviving the facility for the benefit of residents and grassroots sports development.
An official of the Bwari Area Council, who spoke anonymously, acknowledged the infrastructural challenges affecting the stadium.
The official said efforts were ongoing to address deficiencies in public facilities but noted that limited funding had slowed down rehabilitation and maintenance work.