The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)’s declaration that the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, is currently unsuitable to host league matches has sparked growing concern, especially following the circulation of an official letter confirming the decision.
The development raises critical questions, particularly against the backdrop of reports that over ₦5 billion has been expended on the stadium’s pitch and other sports facilities across Oyo State. Stakeholders are now seeking clarity on how a facility that underwent extensive upgrades has deteriorated so quickly.
Observers argue that while wear and tear is inevitable, the situation may point to deeper maintenance and usage challenges. Sports facilities, they note, require structured rest periods, controlled access, and disciplined usage to remain functional over time.
The concern is heightened by recent events at the stadium, including the Oyo State at 50 concert, where large stages were mounted directly on the football pitch. Visual evidence from the event showed heavy staging materials placed on turf already showing signs of stress, further compounding the damage.
With the NPFL’s decision, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) has effectively been rendered homeless, forced to adopt alternative venues as home grounds. For many football supporters, this represents not just a sporting inconvenience but a blow to the identity and pride of the club and its fan base.
This is not the first time concerns have been raised about the pitch. As far back as early 2023, the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the league had threatened to relocate 3SC matches due to the poor playing surface. Although renovation efforts followed, the condition of the pitch as of January 2026 suggests persistent overuse and insufficient maintenance planning.
Sports enthusiasts and analysts insist that the issue should not be viewed as an attack on any institution or administration, but rather as a call for reflection, improved planning, and responsible facility management. They argue that not every concert, political gathering, or large-scale event should default to the main football pitch, particularly when such events involve heavy staging and intense foot traffic.
As discussions continue, many are calling for urgent intervention, clearer usage policies, and possibly allowing the pitch adequate time to recover. Protecting sports infrastructure, they argue, is essential not only for athletes and fans but also for preserving the sporting image of Oyo State.
