For more than a decade, the Ondo City Sports Stadium has remained in a deplorable condition, with its last major facelift traced back to the administration of former Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. Despite several attempts by prominent sons of the land to revive the facility, little progress has been achieved, leaving the once-proud sporting arena in ruins.
Hon. Abiola Makinde, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, has now resolved to renovate the stadium. According to him, the project will give the facility a modern facelift and restore it as a true pride of the community.
Makinde disclosed this during a courtesy visit by End To Miscreants in Ondo Kingdom, a coalition of Ekimogun youth representatives. He explained that although the project was initially scheduled to feature in the 2025 Zonal Intervention Project, the extension of the 2024 national budget until December 31, 2025, created room for an urgent review. This prompted his personal commitment to fund the renovation to ensure the stadium receives immediate attention.
The lawmaker, who also holds the chieftaincy title of Atuluse of Ondo Kingdom, emphasized the importance of the stadium as a unifying ground for youths in Ondo. He described it as a vital tool for engagement, rehabilitation, and curbing antisocial behavior. According to him, the project is not only essential but also time-sensitive, requiring implementation without delay.
Makinde further charged Ondo youths to shun the “Pull Him Down” syndrome, warning that unnecessary political sentiments and unverified rumors only discourage genuine development efforts.
Meanwhile, Comrade Mayowa Akinwande, reacting via Facebook on behalf of Ondo youths and community leaders, commended Hon. Makinde for the intervention. He described it as “the right step at the right time,” while assuring that the people eagerly await the commencement of renovation works immediately after the Ogun Festival celebrations.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Makinde declared: “This stadium will no longer stand as a symbol of neglect. It will be rebuilt as a beacon of hope, unity, and opportunity for the people of Ondo Kingdom.”