Ogun State has officially completed the construction of its much-anticipated Olympic-standard swimming complex, alongside several other key sports facilities, in preparation for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF). The state’s Commissioner for Sports, Wasiu Isiaka, confirmed the milestone in an interview with PUNCH Sports Extra on Sunday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex.
The new swimming facility includes two fully equipped competition and practice pools, both meeting Olympic specifications. These pools now feature the latest global-standard installations, including state-of-the-art swimming pads.
“Both pools are ready,” Isiaka said. “They meet Olympic specifications, with everything from swimming pads to the latest global-standard installations now in place.”
The completion of the aquatic center addresses previous concerns regarding delays in the facility’s construction and marks a significant step forward in the state’s preparations for the NSF. Isiaka also highlighted the completion of four new tennis and handball courts, located next to the swimming complex, as part of a broader upgrade to the state’s sports infrastructure.
In addition to these new facilities, the state has also renovated the football pitch by replacing its natural grass surface with artificial turf. Explaining the decision, Isiaka emphasized the importance of durability and long-term maintenance.
“You don’t just build for the moment,” he said. “You consider maintenance and what’s in vogue globally. Artificial turf makes more sense for the usage we anticipate.”
Addressing concerns about Ogun’s lack of a traditional shooting range, Isiaka clarified that the state has adopted modern, laser-based shooting systems, which are now the standard in the sport. “People keep asking about a traditional shooting range,” he noted. “But the world has moved on. Today, you don’t need live ammunition. Everything is now computerized and done in halls using laser-target technology. Even places like Asaba have switched to this model.”
Isiaka assured that the same expert who installed the laser equipment in Asaba was responsible for the system in Ogun, ensuring that athletes will have access to the latest technology for training and competition.
Looking ahead to the NSF, which will take place from May 16 to 30 in Abeokuta and other venues across Ogun State, Isiaka expressed confidence in the state’s readiness. He noted that the state is not only prepared in terms of infrastructure but also in terms of competitive ambition. Ogun is set to welcome foreign-based athletes and is aiming for strong performances across various sports.
“I doubt if any of the top five or six states will arrive without foreign athletes,” he said. “We are not only ready for them, we’re bringing our own too.”
Isiaka also referenced prominent athletes, such as world champion Tobi Amusan, as examples of the caliber of talent Ogun is working to bring to the festival.
With the completion of its new facilities and the influx of top-tier athletes, Ogun State is poised to make a significant impact at the 2024 National Sports Festival.