By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
The Kwara State government has invested over ₦1 billion in the renovation and upgrade of its indoor sports hall, as part of efforts to boost youth participation and reposition the state for sporting activities.
The upgraded facility, located within the state stadium complex in Ilorin, has now been handed over to the Kwara State Sports Commission following the completion of rehabilitation works.
Officials said the project forms part of broader plans by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to improve infrastructure and expand opportunities for youth engagement through sports.
The indoor sports hall, originally built during the administration of former military governor George Agbazika Innih, had fallen into disuse for years before the recent intervention.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Segun Ogunsola, said the project reflects the government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure and supporting athletes.
Represented by Permanent Secretary Risikat Abdulazeez, he said the upgraded facility would provide an enabling environment for athletes and officials.
He added that the development would position the state to host both national and international sporting events.
The Executive Chairman of the State Sports Commission, Bolakale Mogaji, said the renovation addressed years of neglect.
“The indoor sports hall had been left in a deteriorated state for decades,” Mogaji said, adding that the upgrade demonstrates the government’s commitment to sports development.
He said the commission would ensure effective use of the facility to promote sporting activities and identify talent across the state.
The upgraded complex is equipped to host multiple indoor sports, with officials saying it meets current standards required for competitions and training.
State authorities say the investment is aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports, which they describe as a tool for social development, discipline and job creation.
Sports development has increasingly been identified by governments as a means of engaging young people, reducing social risks and promoting community cohesion.
The Kwara government said it would continue to support the sector and expand infrastructure to strengthen its sports profile and attract events to the state.