Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl Wears a New Look After Full Upgrade

Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl Wears a New Look After Full Upgrade

Gov. AbdulRazaq’s vision transforms Ilorin’s iconic stadium as facilities get global-standard facelift

By Ayodeji Ismail , Ilorin

The Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl of the George Innih Stadium now wears a refreshing new look following a comprehensive upgrade of its facilities by the Kwara State Government.

The facelift comes after the earlier upgrade of the Indoor Sports Hall and the construction of a world-class squash court — both of which set the pace for this latest transformation of the mainbowl.

The complete renovation of the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl is indeed a sight to behold. Key areas that required attention — including the toilets, dressing rooms, media centre, pitch, medical bay, and perimeter fencing — have all been fully upgraded. The repainting of chairs at the spectators’ stand and the entire structure in the same colour scheme as the Indoor Sports Hall not only promotes uniformity but also serves as the perfect finishing touch.

Brandit, the company handling the facelift, has delivered top-quality work in line with global best practices. Football lovers who trooped out to watch the Kwara United vs Abia Warriors match on Sunday expressed delight at the massive improvements to the pitch, dressing rooms, toilets, and media centre. The automated sprinkler system, which was tested before spectators during the match, drew applause from the crowd as it watered the pitch in full view.

Chairman of the Kwara State Football Association, Mallam Idris Musa Thuraya, who is supervising the project, described Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision as one aimed at positioning the edifice to host international football tournaments after completion. He assured that despite the early elimination of Kwara United from the CAF Confederation Cup, the renovation would not be abandoned.

According to him, a CAF inspection is expected soon, and he is confident that the facility will pass all required standards. Mallam Musa further confirmed that the renovation will be completed on schedule and according to specifications. He dismissed concerns about maintenance, expressing confidence that once the facility is officially handed over to the government, the responsible authorities will ensure its proper upkeep.

He also revealed that plans are underway to repair and restore the stadium’s scoreboard, which has been out of use for some time.

With the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl now receiving the attention it deserves, users — especially spectators — are urged to maintain cleanliness and ensure the upgraded facilities are used responsibly to preserve the ambience and functionality.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s investment in sports infrastructure extends beyond Ilorin. His cabinet has approved the upgrade of the Offa Township Stadium and the Lafiagi Stadium, with contractors already mobilized to both sites. This move underscores his unwavering commitment to expanding access to modern sports facilities across the state — not just in urban centres but also at the grassroots.

Indeed, Kwara State has never had it this good. Governor AbdulRazaq has truly changed the narrative of sports investment and development across the state.