Olabisi Olayinka, Ijebu Ode
Otunba Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu Ode which was abandoned by the immediate past administration in Ogun State, has come back to life, Gateway Times can reliably inform.
Findings by our correspondent on Monday, November 5, 2019 revealed that some of the facilities at the stadium which were hitherto taken over by weeds and reptiles due to its closure have been given a facelift by the Prince Dapo Abiodun’s administration.
The stadium, previously known as Gateway Stadium, is a multi-use one and played host to football matches by some of the Nigeria’s clubs. The sporting arena with a capacity of over 20,000 people was last renovated by the Otunba Gbenga Daniel government ahead of the then 2009 U-17 World Cup which the country hosted.
Gateway Times also gathered that the covered area at the main bowl of the stadium which has become tattered and was therefore a no-go-area especially during raining season has also been repaired, while the worn seats are already being attended to for the comfort of football enthusiasts.
According to further findings, the administrative blocks, clinic, games village as well as some of the chalets named after veteran sportsmen in the country have also been renovated.
Speaking to our correspondent, Mr Adekunle Adebanjo, an athlete, said it was with great joy to him that the stadium which was previously abandoned was considered for renovation by the new government in the state.
“We are happy and thankful to Governor Dapo Abiodun for giving approval for the immediate renovation of the facilities at the stadium. If you are one of the people who use the stadium before now, you will be glad at the pace of works here. Though, there are many other things to be done, we are glad this place is wearing a new look,” Adebanjo noted.
