CAF Certifies Abeokuta’s MKO Stadium for Regional Youth Tournament

CAF Certifies Abeokuta’s MKO Stadium for Regional Youth Tournament

By Admin 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially approved the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as a host venue for the upcoming U-17 West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B Championship.

According to Punch, this endorsement follows a detailed inspection of the facility on Monday by a joint delegation from CAF and the West African Football Union. The stadium met all necessary criteria for international competition, including pitch standards, safety protocols, infrastructure, seating capacity, and auxiliary services.

Leading the inspection team was WAFU Executive Director Philip Chare, accompanied by Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation. Both officials praised the arena’s modern features—such as advanced security systems, upgraded locker rooms, a fully equipped medical center, dedicated media zones, and high-capacity floodlighting—highlighting its readiness for top-tier continental fixtures.

Ogun State’s Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, described CAF’s approval as a milestone achievement for the state and a validation of its investment in sports infrastructure.

“This validation by CAF confirms that Ogun State’s investment in sports development is bearing fruit,” said Isiaka. “After hosting the National Sports Festival and several international friendlies, we are now preparing to host the African U-18 and U-20 Athletics Championships, followed by the U-17 WAFU B tournament. These milestones show that our objectives are being achieved.”

Isiaka emphasized the broader implications of the approval, calling it a win not just for the state, but for the country.

“This is not just a win for Ogun State, but for Nigeria as a whole. It reinforces Nigeria’s position on the continental map in terms of sports infrastructure and underscores our commitment to meeting global standards.”