Akwa Ibom Extends Julius Berger Deal for Stadium Maintenance
The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council has sanctioned a fresh one‑year extension of the maintenance contract with Julius Berger Plc for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. This new agreement takes effect from 1 July 2025. Council members described it as vital to preserving the stadium’s world-class facilities and ensuring long-term reliability.
Originally constructed by Julius Berger and opened in November 2014, the 30,000‑seat facility—including its ultra‑modern infrastructure modelled on Europe’s Allianz Arena has required continuous upkeep since inception.
Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno emphasised that the renewal was part of the state’s broader commitment to the ARISE Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure maintenance, sports development and community pride. The stadium hosts major football matches and serves as the home ground for both the national team and NPFL side Akwa United.
By retaining Julius Berger, the executive council secures experienced oversight over one of Nigeria’s premier stadiums supporting sport, events, and public safety.
Editorial
We regard the renewal of Julius Berger’s contract as a conscientious decision. Ensuring that a landmark such as the Godswill Akpabio Stadium remains in top condition requires expertise and consistency and Julius Berger has already demonstrated both.
Continuity matters in asset management. A one‑year extension enables the state to maintain operational integrity while reviewing performance. It reflects prudent governance rather than short‑term expediency.
We are encouraged by how this aligns with broader objectives. Hosting football matches, cultural gatherings, and political events at a well‑maintained venue fosters civic pride and can attract future investment. Neglecting stadium maintenance would undermine those efforts.
The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council has sanctioned a fresh one‑year extension of the maintenance contract with Julius Berger Plc for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. This new agreement takes effect from 1 July 2025. Council members described it as vital to preserving the stadium’s world-class facilities and ensuring long-term reliability.
Originally constructed by Julius Berger and opened in November 2014, the 30,000‑seat facility—including its ultra‑modern infrastructure modelled on Europe’s Allianz Arena has required continuous upkeep since inception.
Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno emphasised that the renewal was part of the state’s broader commitment to the ARISE Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure maintenance, sports development and community pride. The stadium hosts major football matches and serves as the home ground for both the national team and NPFL side Akwa United.
By retaining Julius Berger, the executive council secures experienced oversight over one of Nigeria’s premier stadiums supporting sport, events, and public safety.
Editorial
We regard the renewal of Julius Berger’s contract as a conscientious decision. Ensuring that a landmark such as the Godswill Akpabio Stadium remains in top condition requires expertise and consistency and Julius Berger has already demonstrated both.
Continuity matters in asset management. A one‑year extension enables the state to maintain operational integrity while reviewing performance. It reflects prudent governance rather than short‑term expediency.
We are encouraged by how this aligns with broader objectives. Hosting football matches, cultural gatherings, and political events at a well‑maintained venue fosters civic pride and can attract future investment. Neglecting stadium maintenance would undermine those efforts.