The Akwa Ibom State Government has approved the renewal of its maintenance contract with construction giants, Julius Berger Plc, for the upkeep of the 30,000-capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Completesports.com reports.
Modelled after Germany’s Allianz Arena, construction of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium began in 2012 and was completed in 2014 at a cost of $96 million. The stadium, also known as the ‘Nest of Champions’, is widely regarded as Nigeria’s premier sporting facility with natural grass and has consistently hosted international matches involving the Super Eagles.
Julius Berger to Continue Maintenance on Renewable Basis
Under the renewed agreement, Julius Berger Plc will continue to handle the stadium’s maintenance on a renewable basis, ensuring the facility remains in top condition for national and international events.
Also Read: Okoronkwo Wins Super Falcons’ WAFCON 2024 Fans Award
The renewal was approved on Tuesday, 29 July 2025, during the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Uyo. The meeting was presided over by Governor Umo Eno and attended by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Civil Service, commissioners, and special advisers.
Stadium Vital for Sports, Youth Engagement, and Tourism
Governor Umo used the occasion to charge council members to stay focused and committed to achieving the objectives of the ‘ARISE’ Agenda — the state’s developmental framework.
Also Read: CHAN 2024: Austin Speaks On Home Eagles’ Preparation, Chelle’s Influence
The renewed contract with Julius Berger officially took effect from 1 July 2025 and forms part of the government’s strategic efforts to preserve the facility as a premier sports destination in Nigeria.
“The maintenance of the stadium remains a key priority of the government, given its role in sports development, youth engagement, and tourism,” said Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, Commissioner for Information, in a statement released after the meeting.
By Sab Osuji
1 Comment
Call me superstitious, but we should not play any of our remaining WCQ matches in the stadium, nor at the MKO Abiola one in Abuja.
Someone should please remind me of the last time the SE won a match in any of these stadiums? Whereas, the SF wins nearly all their home games played in Lagos or Ogun State.
If they have to play at the Godswill Akpabio stadium, perhaps they should change the name first.
That said, we really did our early qualification plans a big damage fielding Boniface as the main striker and Uzoho as the goalkeeper. These 2 unserious players dented our plans.