Call for Renovation of Confluence Stadium Issued to Gov Ododo by Kogi Referees Council

An urgent appeal has been made by referees in Kogi State to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the renovation of Confluence Stadium, with the aim of attracting more sporting activities to the state. The chairman of the Kogi State Referees Council, Baba Abel, delivered this plea during the association’s annual general meeting in Lokoja on Wednesday.

Baba Abel, a retired FIFA referee, expressed concern over the deplorable state of the Confluence Stadium, originally constructed during the administration of former Governor of Kogi State, Ibrahim Idris.

Highlighting the significance of the stadium within Nigeria, he emphasized the current state of disrepair causing local teams like Confluence Queen and Kogi United to seek alternative venues outside the state for their home matches.

Emphasizing the potential of the stadium to host national teams for international fixtures, Abel termed the neglect of the stadium as a setback for Kogi State, urging Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to take immediate steps for its rejuvenation.

Moreover, he enlisted the support of philanthropists and well-meaning individuals to join hands in the renovation efforts, fostering the growth of sports within the state.

Commending the professional behavior of the referees in Kogi State, Abel urged them to uphold their standards in officiating matches diligently without any compromise, citing the lack of misconduct by any local referees amidst nationwide instances of sanctions for unethical conduct.

In a related statement, the Kogi State Director of Sport, represented by David Amadi, the head of coaching and training of the Council, echoed the urgency for the government to prioritize giving Confluence Stadium a facelift.