BY ABEL JOHNGOLD
The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Nwoko, is making significant strides in sports development by leading the construction of a mini sports stadium in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area.
This initiative was confirmed during an official tour of the Senator’s ongoing projects in Delta North. Dr. Michael Nwoko, Chief of Staff to Senator Nwoko, led a delegation of journalists and community leaders, providing insights into the project’s scope and objectives.
Dr. Nwoko emphasized that the stadium will feature a state-of-the-art football pitch, a seven-a-side pitch convertible for multiple sports, pavilions on both sides, and fully equipped dressing rooms.
Designed to meet global sports infrastructure standards, the facility underscores Senator Nwoko’s unwavering commitment to grassroots sports development in Nigeria.
“Senator Nwoko has always been passionate about grassroots sports,” Dr. Nwoko stated, referencing the establishment of Nigeria’s first Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko, the Senator’s hometown.
Now in its second academic session, the university aims to nurture young athletes, allowing them to pursue higher education while excelling in sports.
Dr. Nwoko further explained, “The Senator believes in the ‘catch-them-young’ model and is committed to identifying and developing young athletes from an early stage rather than waiting until international competitions approach.”
Beyond nurturing talent, the Sports University also provides opportunities for established athletes without formal education to obtain academic qualifications while advancing their sports careers.
The mini stadium is being built on the site of a defunct local government stadium, which had been abandoned since its initial conception in the early 2000s. This revitalization is expected to breathe new life into the area.
“The goal is to transform this facility into a Games Village that will benefit not just the local community but the entire region,” Dr. Nwoko explained.
Initially, the stadium was planned for construction within the Local Government Secretariat in Issele-Uku, but the plan faced setbacks.
However, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, intervened, leading to a new site secured with approval from the Delta State Government and the Delta State Sports Commission.
Dr. Nwoko assured that construction is progressing swiftly, with engineers working under strict directives to ensure timely completion.
“The distinguished Senator has given a marching order for all projects in this phase, including road constructions, to be ready for commissioning in the coming weeks,” he affirmed.
Once completed, the sports stadium is expected to become a hub for talent discovery, economic growth, and sports development in Delta North, further solidifying Senator Ned Nwoko’s dedication to youth empowerment and grassroots sports development.
