The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council has approved the renewal of the maintenance contract for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. The decision was taken during the last council meeting held at the Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Uyo, and presided over by Governor Umo Eno.
The renewal, which is for an additional one year starting from July 1, 2025, grants Julius Berger Plc continued responsibility for the upkeep of the 30,000-capacity multi-purpose stadium.
According to the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, the decision reaffirms the state government’s commitment to preserving one of the most iconic sporting facilities in Nigeria and ensuring it remains fit for international and local use.
Built between 2012 and 2014 at a cost of 96 million dollars, the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium was designed and constructed by Julius Berger and modelled after Germany’s Allianz Arena. The stadium was originally named the Akwa Ibom International Stadium but was renamed on May 29, 2015, by former Governor Udom Emmanuel in honour of his predecessor, Senator Godswill Akpabio, under whose administration the stadium was built.
Since its commissioning, the stadium has served as a host venue for major national and international football matches, including fixtures involving Nigeria’s Super Eagles. It is also used for cultural, political, social, and religious events. The facility has been the home for Akwa United FC since 2014.
Governor Umo Eno, in his remarks during the council meeting, stressed the importance of consistent maintenance to protect the state’s investment in infrastructure. He said the stadium stands as a symbol of Akwa Ibom’s progress and hospitality and must be kept in top condition.
“The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium is a national asset that showcases the excellence of our people and state. We must continue to maintain it at the highest standard,” the Governor said.
The stadium’s grass surface, modern drainage system, electronic scoreboard, floodlights, and other advanced facilities have made it a preferred venue by international football bodies. Julius Berger, known for its expertise in engineering and facility management, has handled the maintenance of the stadium since its completion.
The renewed contract will enable ongoing repair works, pitch care, equipment servicing, and overall upkeep of the facility to meet international requirements.
This resolution was part of a broader list of decisions taken at the July 29 Executive Council meeting, which also included approvals for construction projects, economic planning frameworks, a new Treasury Single Account platform, sports festival preparations, and public health initiatives.
With this approval, the Akwa Ibom State Government has once again underlined its commitment to infrastructure preservation, sporting excellence, and creating a conducive environment for international engagements.
