The Ekiti State Government has raised concerns over the quality of some components of the ongoing renovation and construction works at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti, directing contractors to undertake corrective measures.
The concerns followed a joint inspection of the project by the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Bureau of Special Projects (BSP), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Independent Projects Monitoring Office (IPMO) and officials of the Ekiti State Sports Council on September 30, 2026.
The inspection, led by the Special Adviser/Director-General of OTSD, Engr. (Dr.) John Moyo Ekundayo, FNSE, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects, Mr Olubunmi Talabi, was conducted to assess the level, quality and compliance of work executed at the stadium.
During the physical assessment, the inspection team observed that the athletics track was poorly executed and, in its present condition, unsuitable for sporting activities.
The team also expressed concerns about the steel roof truss supporting the spectators’ stand, noting that its adequacy for the intended structural load required professional review to guarantee structural stability and safety.
Similarly, the AstroTurf installed on the football pitch was found not to appear compliant with the required specifications and quality, with noticeable signs of premature wear.
The inspection team consequently directed that the AstroTurf be removed and replaced with a suitable, durable and standard-compliant product in line with the approved specifications.
It also recommended the complete removal and replacement of the existing track surface with a new athletics track of appropriate quality and standard suitable for sporting activities.
The team further called for a comprehensive review of the design and structural adequacy of the steel roof truss supporting the seating terrace, as well as the conduct of necessary quality-control and engineering tests on relevant materials and components.
According to the inspection team, the contractor must also address all identified defects contained in the project snag list and complete outstanding works in accordance with approved designs, specifications, applicable standards and best engineering practices.
Speaking during the inspection, Ekundayo and Talabi expressed concerns over the identified deficiencies and directed that appropriate corrective measures be taken to ensure that the project meets the required standards.
The representative of the project contractor, United Logistics Building Structures, Architect Moyo Osebanjo, had earlier briefed the inspection team on the progress of work and other aspects of the project.
The inspection was attended by officials of OTSD, BSP, BPP, IPMO and the Ekiti State Sports Council, including the Technical Adviser on Sports, Dr. (Mrs.) Olusola Osetoba, and the Stadium Manager, Mr Itadare Ominiyi.
The joint inspection, according to OTSD, underscores the state government’s commitment to effective project monitoring, inter-agency collaboration, accountability and quality assurance in the execution of government projects.
It also signals the administration’s determination to ensure that public infrastructure delivered to residents meets approved specifications, safety requirements and expected standards.