Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi and Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi have collaborated on the renovation of the Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle area of Lagos State, reports Soccernet.ng
Adeyemi, who was born to Nigerian parents, plays international football for Germany and was included in the squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Despite his football allegiance to the former European and world champion, Adeyemi remains connected to his Nigerian roots.
The collaboration with Ndidi is Adeyemi’s latest step in giving back to the country of his father’s birth.
In an Instagram post, Ndidi expressed his pleasure to collaborate with Adeyemi on the Maracanã Stadium project in Lagos.
The Super Eagles midfielder and Adeyemi have donated two residential buildings named after them. Each building houses his 96 air-conditioned beds.
The building will also have 24-hour solar power, recycled water, state-of-the-art shower facilities and fully equipped changing rooms.
Ndidi was attended by 10 distinguished delegations including Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, HRM Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Iru Land President Oniru, Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA Chairman Fatai Ayola. He revealed that he visited the facility on May 21st.
“I am very proud to be a part of this journey and am very grateful to Nigeria for supporting the development of my sport,” he wrote.
“On October 21st, Malacanang Stadium in Ajegunle welcomed a special visit from the Minister of Sports of Nigeria, Senator John Enoh. They toured the new facilities donated by myself and Karim Adeyemi. I did.
“They were impressed by the two residential buildings named after me and Karim Adeyemi. Each building has 96 fully air-conditioned beds, 24-hour electricity and solar. It is equipped with photovoltaic power, treated water supply, and top-of-the-line showers and changing rooms.”/p>
“It was an honor to have the Minister share his vision for the development of youth sports in Nigeria. The day ended with an 11-a-side football match in honor of the Minister.
“Thank you for your support and confidence in our vision for sport in Nigeria.”
The Nathaniel Idowu Foundation led the transformation of sports facilities. The Chairman of the Foundation, Mr. Yemi Idowu, emphasized the important role of the Foundation in addressing social challenges in the community and state.
The renovated stadium includes 18 soccer pitches and accommodation for athletes.
Maracana Stadium Ajegunle is considered a homage to the famous Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which has hosted a variety of international talents, including notables such as Odion Ighalo and Taribo West.
