The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ondo State Chapter, has called on the state government to urgently resume construction work on the long-abandoned new stadium at Araromi in Akure, describing it as a shame that the state, since its creation, still lacks a befitting state-owned stadium.
The demand was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s congress held in Akure on Friday, July 11, 2025. The association noted that reviving the Araromi Stadium project would signal a turning point in sports infrastructure development in the Sunshine State.
“Resuming the construction of the Araromi stadium is no longer a matter of choice but an urgent necessity,” the communiqué stated. “It is embarrassing that a state with a rich sporting history continues to struggle with inadequate infrastructure. A functional stadium will boost athletes’ morale, attract sporting events, and project Ondo positively on the national stage.”
The congress also raised concerns over the deplorable condition of the Akure Township Stadium, which has forced the state football teams — Sunshine Stars FC and Sunshine Queens — to play home matches outside the state, a situation SWAN described as one of the major reasons Sunshine Stars FC was recently relegated from the top tier of Nigerian football.
While acknowledging the initial renovation efforts by the government, the body lamented the near-abandonment of work on the football pitch and critical facilities, calling on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to personally visit the stadium and assess the level of deterioration.
In another related resolution, the association commended the athletes who represented Ondo State at the recently concluded 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State. SWAN applauded their passion and resilience despite the numerous challenges they faced.
However, the congress expressed dissatisfaction with the overall performance of the state contingent and called for early and comprehensive preparations toward the next festival scheduled to hold in Enugu State in 2026. It noted that improved planning, training, and facility provision would go a long way in ensuring a better outing.
Furthermore, the congress recognized the efforts of the coaching crew and sports officials who worked under difficult conditions due to inadequate training facilities. Their dedication was seen as vital to whatever success the athletes managed to achieve.
The association also emphasized the need for competent leadership in sports administration. It urged the governor to appoint passionate and capable individuals to key positions in the Ministry of Sports, Ondo State Football Agency, and the State Sports Council for efficient management and better utilization of resources.
SWAN concluded by urging local government chairmen across all 18 LGAs in the state to invest in grassroots sports development through regular community-based competitions. It also recommended partnerships with SWAN for technical guidance and proposed disciplinary actions against any officials found to be engaging in unethical practices.
