The Ondo State Government has not abandoned the renovation of Akure Stadium, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has disclosed.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, while reacting to the communique issued by the Ondo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) regarding the “abandonment” of the Akure Stadium, stated that the contractor handling the project had been mobilised.

In a statement issued and personally signed, Yusuf-Ogunleye said: “Please be reminded that the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the renovation of the sports complex and its football pitch, and the contractor has since been mobilised.”

He continued, “Be informed that the contractor has since moved to the site, with construction work ongoing at the hockey pitch, where the old synthetic surface from the football pitch will be used.”

“The contractor has been at work since mobilisation, removing the old surface for the hockey pitch and preparing to lay a new one, which has already been procured,” he added.

“The Executive Governor, a man of his word, is committed to sports development in our dear Sunshine State.”

“As a reputable stakeholder, SWAN is expected to complement the efforts of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and work in tandem with us to achieve success together.”

“Again, the doors of my ministry are open for your association to seek relevant information, so you can stay abreast of government policies and programmes in sports development.”

“Remember, ask when in doubt.”

Yusuf-Ogunleye also mentioned the recent performance of Ondo State athletes at the Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, stating that the success could not have been achieved without the great support of the Governor.

“Note that once construction or renovation is ongoing at any site, it takes time for sporting activities to resume, as is the case with the National Stadium,” he explained.

“Other issues raised are noted,” he concluded.