NIS boss calls for ban on political events at national stadiums

Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has demanded the immediate prohibition of political and religious activities at national stadiums including the MKO Abiola National Stadium, warning that such events accelerate facility deterioration. Shaibu emphasized stadiums were built for athlete training and development, not non-sporting events. He noted only the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium meets FIFA standards, while others like the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Edo State suffered damage from a concert by singer Rema, requiring remediation. The NIS chief urged collaboration between NIS, NSC, and NFF to protect sports infrastructure nationwide.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/13/stop-holding-political-events-at-national-stadiums-philip-shaibu/