Senator Sadiq Umar Revives Grassroots Football as Akerebiata Wembley Undergoes Major Upgrade in Kwara
Senator Sulaiman Sadiq Umar, representing Kwara North Senatorial District, has once again demonstrated his commitment to grassroots development with the ongoing grading and upgrading of the Government Day Secondary School football field in Karuma, popularly known as Akerebiata Wembley.
The project, facilitated through the Kwara State Football Association under the leadership of Mallam Idris Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, aligns with the senator’s second-term agenda, which places strong emphasis on youth empowerment and the rehabilitation of community-based sports infrastructure across Kwara State.
For decades, Akerebiata Wembley has served as a vital centre for youth engagement, football training, and community competitions in Karuma and neighbouring areas. However, its deteriorating condition—marked by uneven terrain, frequent waterlogging during the rainy season, and the absence of basic sporting facilities—had significantly limited its capacity to host organized sporting activities. The current upgrade marks a turning point, transforming the pitch into a safer and more standard playing surface.
Stakeholders believe the improved facility will encourage greater youth participation in sports by providing a conducive environment for training and competitions. Schools, football academies, and local teams are expected to benefit immensely, using the upgraded field to identify and nurture talents while instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership among young people.
Beyond football, the intervention is widely regarded as a strategic social investment. By engaging youths in productive and structured activities, the project contributes to reducing social vices, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating pathways for young talents aspiring to professional careers in sports.The upgrade is also projected to stimulate local economic activity.
Community tournaments, inter-school matches, and football events hosted at the venue are expected to attract visitors, support small businesses, and create opportunities for local coaches, referees, and event organizers, thereby strengthening the micro-economy of the area.
More importantly, the initiative has rekindled community pride and renewed hope among residents. Senator Sulaiman Sadiq Umar’s support underscores the importance of investing at the grassroots level as a foundation for sustainable sports and youth development.
As work progresses, Akerebiata Wembley is poised to reclaim its status as a cherished community ground and evolve into a standard venue for organized competitions and structured youth programmes—reinforcing the belief that investing in sports is ultimately an investment in the future of Kwara State.
