The Benue state government has approved the sum of N381 million for the rehabilitation of the playing turf of Aper Aku Stadium and the facelift of the stadium and the rehabilitation of the old MarCarthy Stadium both in Makurdi.
It will be recalled that the playing turf of Aper Aku stadium has been in a bad state which compelled the Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi to take their home matches to Jos, the Plateau State capital after the stadium failed to meet the standard set by the management of the Nigeria Premier League.
Worried by the security risk involved in the players and management of the club travelling to Jos for their league matches, the state government approved the re-turfing of the playing pitch to meet international standards.
The State government took the decision at an emergency State Executive Council meeting held in Makurdi.
The State Commissioner for Information Mr Michael Inalegwu who made this known to newsmen said “the sum of N243 million has been earmarked for the renovation of the playing turf at the stadium.”
“We also agreed to give a facelift to other facilities and structures at the Aper Aku stadium. So, we had two-way contractual obligations; one to Momimichelle Sporting Facitly Construction Ltd., which laid the astroturf and so was chosen because of their expertise.
“For the other renovation on the Stadium which will be done by direct labour, the sum of N65 million was approved for the Ministry of Youths and Sports. This is to cut costs.
“For the complete renovation of the MarCarthy Stadium to make provision for offices for the club officials, accommodation for players, the Council approved N73million. We are giving the contractors not less than two and half months to finish work on the playing turf. So, whatever is the case between now and April, the whole work should have been completed,” he said.