Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Karim Adeyemi of Dortmund have both given facilities to the new-look Maracana Stadium in Lagos State’s Ajegunle neighborhood.
Ndidi announced this in an Instagram post on Sunday, expressing his excitement at being a part of the adventure of renovating the Maracana Stadium, which is known for generating numerous talents who have gone on to represent Nigeria at all levels.
The Super Eagles midfielder said that he and Nigerian-born Adeyemi, who plays for Germany, gave two residential buildings named after them, as well as 96 fully air-conditioned beds, 24-hour electricity and solar backup, cleaned water supply, and first-rate shower and changing rooms.
“I am very proud to be part of this journey and very grateful to Nigeria for supporting my sports development,” he wrote.
“On October 21st, the Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle welcomed a special visit from Nigerian Sports Minister Senator John Enoh, HRM Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Oniru of Iru Land, and Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA Chairman Fatai Ayoola. They toured the new facilities donated by myself and Karim Adeyemi.
“They were impressed by the two residential buildings named after myself and Karim Adeyemi, each of which housed 96 fully air-conditioned beds, 24-hour power and solar backup, treated water supply, and first-rate shower and changing facilities.”
“It was an honor to have the Minister share his vision for youth sports development in Nigeria with us. The day ended with an 11-a-side football match in honor of the Minister.
“Want to give my thanks for the support and belief in our vision for sports in Nigeria!”
The Nathaniel Idowu Foundation spearheaded the redevelopment of the famous sports complex.
Yemi Idowu, the foundation’s president, stated that the facility will assist minimize social vices in the neighborhood and the state. There are 18 football pitches and athlete’s hostels at the complex.
The Maracana Stadium Ajegunle, named after Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracana Stadium, has produced global talents such as Odion Ighalo and Taribo West, among many others.