From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Worried by the security risk involved in players of Lobi Stars travelling to Jos for their league matches, Benue State has approved the re-turfing of the Aper Aku Stadium to meet international standard.
The State government took the decision at an emergency executive council meeting held on Thursday at Government House, Makurdi.
The State Commissioner for Information Michael Inalegwu disclosed to newsmen that the sum of 243 million has been earmarked for renovation of playing turf at the stadium.
He said ,”We also agreed to give a face lift 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 astro turf and so was chosen because of their expertise. For the other renovation on the Stadium which will be done by direct labor, the sum of 65 million was approved to the Ministry of Youths/Sports. This is to cut cost. For complete renovation of the MarCarthy Stadium to make provision for offices of the club officials, accommodation for players, council approved 73 million. 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.
