Contrary to its earlier stance, the Akwa Ibom State government has approved the use of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as venue for the presidential campaign flag-off to hold on December 28, 2018.
Recall that the state commissioner for youth and sports, Mr Monday Ebong Uko, in a press release made public on Sunday, had said that the venue could not be approved due to the next season of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) which will begin on January 13, 2018, as well as ongoing maintenance of the facility.
The statement also stated that Julius Berger Construction Company, which is contracted to handle the maintenance of the facility, had closed shop for the year and proceeded on vacation.
But in another release also signed my Uko and made public on Monday, the state government has approved that the stadium be used for President Buhari’s campaign flag-off.
“Following a decision by Julius Berger Plc to recall their staff from their scheduled holiday, the Akwa Ibom State Government has approved the use of the Nest of Champions Stadium, Uyo for the flag off of the President’s electioneering campaign on December 28, 2018.
“However, all other terms of use will remain effective.
“Organisers of the rally are expected to meet with the stadium management to finalise this approval,” the release read.