No cause for alarm over stadium pitch: Kwara Sports commission

•Unfolds plans for expired synthetic grass

The attention of the Kwara State Sports Commission has been drawn to some concerns regarding the use of a canopy for a conference on the Stadium Mainbowl pitch.

Firstly, the playing pitch is quite different from the tartan track. The Sports Commission, to be sure, comprises experts and patriots who understand the rules and practices, and are conscious of same in their management of sports facilities.

Secondly, we assert that there is no cause for alarm on the use of the playing pitch as every step has been taken to ensure that no harm is done to the facility.

Thirdly, claims that the use of the facility could lead to suspension of the league match are false. There is no such thing.

Fourthly, the artificial grass is long due for replacement. As early as January 2021, the government has been notified of the need to change the playing surface’s artificial grass because it has undergone some deterioration over the years. As a matter of fact, the Nigerian Professional League had stated that the Kwara Utd may play its home matches in other venues from 2023 if the grass is not changed by next year.

The Sports Commission is glad therefore to mention that this project has been captured in the 2022 budget. In other words, the artificial grass will be changed early next year and this would mean that our team, Kwara United, will play their home games in other venues for six weeks or more while the pitch undergoes complete renewal. This has nothing to do with any recent use of the football pitch; it is about the fact that the grass is already due for replacement owing to wear and tear of the past few years.

Signed
Abdullahi Yunusa Lade
For: Kwara State Sports Commission.