NOC Turns 35-Year-Old Land into Hub for Sports and Community Development

NOC Turns 35-Year-Old Land into Hub for Sports and Community Development

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s sports sector is set for a transformative shift following the launch of the Olympafrica Centre and the groundbreaking of an integrated Olympic City project by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

NOC President, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, described the initiative as a landmark development aimed at strengthening grassroots sports and redefining athlete development in the country. He noted that the project introduces a sustainable model that combines sports infrastructure with residential living.

At the heart of the initiative is the Olympafrica Centre, developed in collaboration with the Olympafrica Foundation, an organisation that promotes youth development through sport across the continent with support from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Speaking at the event, Olympafrica Foundation Chair and CEO, Alassane Thierno Diack, said the centre would serve as a structured platform for identifying and nurturing young talent at the community level. He added that the project is designed to build a reliable pipeline of athletes capable of representing Nigeria at global competitions, including the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships.

Described as the first project of its kind in Nigeria, the development integrates a “Live-Train-Play” concept aimed at promoting both athletic excellence and healthy living. Former basketball international and NOC Third Vice President, Olumide Oyedeji, who chaired the project implementation committee, emphasised its innovative approach to combining lifestyle and performance.

The 6.7-hectare site has been divided into two sections, with 40 per cent allocated to sports facilities and 60 per cent to a residential estate. The design is intended to create a cohesive environment where athletes, coaches, and support personnel can live and train in close proximity, enhancing performance outcomes and community interaction.

Modern Sports Infrastructure

The Olympafrica Centre features upgraded outdoor and indoor facilities designed to support a wide range of sporting activities. Outdoor amenities include a renovated cultural centre, a multi-purpose court, a covered spectator pavilion, and ongoing work on a standard football pitch and an eight-lane athletics track.

Indoor facilities cater to both combat and team sports, with dedicated halls for karate, taekwondo, wrestling, and weightlifting, alongside courts for basketball, volleyball, and tennis.

Sustainable Funding Model

The project also addresses long-standing funding and environmental challenges associated with the site, originally allocated by the Lagos State Government in 1990. Through a build-and-sell residential model, the NOC aims to attract private investment and generate sustainable revenue for the maintenance and expansion of the sports complex.

Community Impact and Youth Engagement

Beyond elite sports development, the initiative is expected to play a significant role in youth empowerment and community engagement. Gumel stated that the facility would provide a secure and functional environment for young people, helping to channel their energy into productive activities.

Additional infrastructure, including a security outpost and improved water supply through borehole systems, is expected to benefit the surrounding Amuwo Odofin community.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, represented by Barrister Musa Ahmadu, commended the NOC for revitalising a previously underutilised 35-year-old land asset.

Former Athletics Federation of Nigeria President, Dan Ngerem, also praised the committee for retaining ownership of the land over the decades, describing the development as a significant milestone.

The residential component of the project is being handled by Ampharco Real Estate, led by Joseph Chime, and Numero Homes, managed by Omowunmi Olalere. Speaking on behalf of the partners, Olalere said the estate is expected to be completed within 24 months.