Teslim Balogun stadium gets Eko 2026 facelift

Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, has undergone a major facelift ahead of the maiden National Intermediate Games, tagged EKO 2026.
 

An on-the-spot assessment by our correspondent on Monday observed finishing touches ongoing inside the main bowl.
  
The 19-year-old Lagos State-owned facility is scheduled to host both the opening and closing ceremonies of the National Intermediate Games.
  
The opening ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 1, while the closing ceremony will hold on Oct. 15 at the stadium.
  
It was reported that spectators’ stands have been fitted with plastic seats, with different colours now distinguishing the various sections.
  
The fully covered stadium has also undergone extensive painting, significantly improving its appearance ahead of the national sporting event.
  
The football pitch has received a major upgrade, with a lush green surface replacing the previous synthetic hybrid grass.
  
The state box has also been refurbished, with new fittings giving the facility a more modern and international-standard appearance.
  
However, work is still ongoing on the tartan track, which is expected to receive an internationally approved surface upon completion.
  
Jamiu Hassan, Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), assured that the stadium would be ready for the Games.
  
“We have been working round the clock to be ready for the games. Teslim Balogun Stadium will be ready for the games,” he said.
  
It was reported that Teslim Balogun Stadium will serve as the main arena, while several other facilities have been designated for various sporting events.
  
Other venues include the National Stadium, Surulere; Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba; Agege Township Stadium and Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
  
The Elegbata Sports Complex will also serve as a Games venue, alongside several institutional sporting facilities across Lagos.
  
These include Lagos Tennis Club, Onikan; TBS Cricket Oval; Yaba College of Technology; and the University of Lagos.
  
The extensive preparations underscore Lagos’ efforts to provide upgraded facilities for athletes competing at the inaugural National Intermediate Games.
  
Teslim Balogun Stadium is not new to hosting major national sporting events, having hosted the 18th National Sports Festival, Eko 2012.
  
The stadium’s latest transformation is expected to enhance its suitability for hosting ceremonies and major competitions during EKO 2026.