When it comes to sports and football, Nigeria is one of the biggest countries in the world, with talent spread across the biggest sports. With 36 states across six geopolitical zones, Nigeria can have at least one stadium in each state.
However, most of these are community stadiums and sports centers, but after hosting the Africa Cup of Nations twice, the FIFA U-17 World Cup and the FIFA U-20 World Cup once each, as well as several other sporting tournaments, Nigeria has upped the ante in terms of this in sporting opportunities.
So today we're taking a look at the five biggest football stadiums in the country in terms of capacity. Here are the five biggest football stadiums in Nigeria.
1. Moshood Abiola National Stadium
Capacity: 60.491
The Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja is the largest stadium in the country. In addition to the capacity for 60 seats, the building, built in 2003, also houses other sports, such as an Olympic swimming pool, basketball court, FIFA-level training courts and a gymnasium.
The stadium was abandoned for a while, but was recently renovated and redecorated by Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote. The stadium was later renamed in honor of the late politician.
2. Lagos National Stadium
Capacity: 55.000
The Lagos National Stadium was for a long time the largest stadium in the country and has hosted several national team games since the 1970s.
The stadium hosted the final of the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, won by the Super Eagles in front of their home fans, and the 2000 Cup of Nations, co-hosted with Ghana.
Although the infrastructure has long been neglected, it is currently under reconstruction and is expected to host national team matches in the coming years.
3. The new Jos Stadium
Capacity: 44.000
New Jos Stadium is the home ground of Plateau United. With a capacity for 44 spectators, it is expected to be one of the largest stadiums in the country when construction is completed.
However, the construction of the infrastructure has dragged on over the years and is not yet completed, but it is already used as the headquarters of Plateau United. Once completed, it is expected to be one of the best football stadiums in Nigeria.
4. Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium
Capacity: 38.000
The Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt has a capacity of 38.000 spectators and has a natural grass surface. It is the home ground of Rivers United and is one of the newest stadiums in Nigeria, having been built in 2015. The stadium is named after former Super Eagles player Adokiye Amiesimaka, who won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations and was president from Sharks Football Club.
5. Muhammadu Dikko Stadium
Capacity: 35.000
Katsina United's beautiful stadium, also known as Karkanda Stadium, is one of the largest in the country, with a capacity for 35 spectators. The stadium is named after the 20th century Emir Muhammadu Dikko of Katsina.
The Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, opened in 2013, is the fifth largest stadium in Nigeria. However, the artificial surface makes it difficult to attract teams to play there.
