Your Excellency,
The Executive Governor of Kogi state
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo
Sir,
URGENT NEED FOR REVITALIZATION OF SPORTING FACILITIES AND RESTRUCTURING OF KOGI UNITED F.C.
My name is Momoh Camara Mejid, an indigene of Nagazi in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State, though, I was born and brought up in Ahache, Okene Local Government Area. I am a professional Estate Surveyor and Valuer, and I currently serve as a Lecturer in the Department of Estate Management and Valuation at the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa.
In addition to my academic career, I am a retired football referee and presently serve as a Referee Assessor in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), contributing to the growth and development of football in our nation Nigeria.
I write to you as a concerned citizen and passionate supporter of sports development in our dear state to draw your urgent attention to the unacceptable condition of sporting facilities across Kogi State, particularly the deplorable state of the Confluence Stadium. These issues, as you may be aware, have been a growing concern among citizens, athletes, and sports enthusiasts in our state, and I believe immediate attention and action are needed to reverse the ugly trend.
Over the years, the Confluence stadium Lokoja, which should stand as a symbol of pride and unity for our people, has gradually deteriorated. The playing turf, spectator stands, training facilities, and general infrastructure that were once vibrant and full of promise now showing signs of neglect. The state-of-the-art stadiums and arenas that we once prided ourselves on are no longer able to meet the standards expected by athletes, coaches, and fans alike.
A stadium is more than just a field; it is a hub for youth engagement, talent discovery, community bonding, and economic activity. Unfortunately, the current condition of the Confluence Stadium does not reflect the aspirations or potential of our great state. The poor conditions of these facilities have not only discouraged young talent but also hindered the overall growth and development of sports in our state. We cannot continue to expect success or excellence in a system that fails to properly support its athletes with the necessary resources and training environments.
As a trained Estate Surveyor sir, I make bold to tell you that the state of the stadium facilities, if not checked, has a lot of socio-economic implications such as criminal hideout which can increase the state of insecurity within the state, economic downturn within the vicinity, urban blight thereby making the surrounding area less attractive for residents and investors etc.
Equally concerning is the abysmal performance of Kogi United F.C. in recent seasons. Once a team that inspired hope and unity among citizens, the club has struggled consistently, with poor league outings and declining morale among players and supporters. While athletes and technical crews carry responsibility on the field, sustainable success is impossible without proper infrastructure, administrative efficiency, adequate funding, and strategic planning.
Sports, particularly football, possess a unique power to unite people across ethnic, religious, and political divides. In a diverse state like ours, football can serve as a powerful tool for fostering unity, promoting youth development, reducing crime, and enhancing the state’s image nationally. A vibrant and competitive state-owned football club can ignite pride, stimulate grassroots participation, and create opportunities for our talented young people.
Your Excellency sir, your administration has consistently emphasized development and youth empowerment. In this regard, I respectfully urge Your Excellency to treat this matter as one of urgency by commissioning a comprehensive review of Kogi United F.C., with a view toward a total overhaul. Such a review may consider:
i. Immediate Renovation and Upgrading of Sporting Facilities: We need to ensure that our athletes have access to world-class training environments. Investments in the repair and renovation of existing facilities, as well as the construction of new ones, should be prioritized.
ii. Review and Restructure of the Management of State-Owned Sports Teams: It is crucial that we evaluate the current leadership structure of our teams. We need skilled administrators who can provide effective leadership, better resource allocation, and bring about the necessary reforms in team management.
iii. Re-assessment of the Technical Crew and Coaching Staff: Our athletes deserve the best coaching and technical support available. A thorough review of the current coaching staff should be conducted, and where necessary, new talent should be brought in to ensure that our teams are receiving the best possible guidance.
iv. Youth Sports Development: We must nurture and support young talent in our schools and communities. A comprehensive youth development program will help build a sustainable pipeline of talent for the future.
With decisive leadership and strategic investment, Kogi United F.C. can be repositioned as a formidable team and a beacon of pride for our state. The revitalization of our sporting facilities and football structure would send a strong message that Kogi State is committed to excellence, unity, and youth development.
Your Excellency sir, the people of Kogi State look forward with hope to a renewed hope where our stadiums are vibrant, our team competitive, and our youth inspired. I trust in your commitment to progress and respectfully appeal for your immediate intervention.
Thank you in anticipation of your attention to this pressing issues.
– Momoh Camara Mejid (MNIVS, RSV) wrote from Nasarawa State.
