By Amos Aar
THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL of the Benue State Public Procurement Commission (BSPPC), Dr. Comfort Adadu, on Thursday, carried out an inspection of the ongoing renovation of Aper Aku Stadium, currently handled by Monimechelle Sports Facilities Ltd.
During the visit, Dr. Adadu expressed concern over the project’s delay, noting that the contract was re-awarded to the contractor in August 2024 with a three-month completion timeline.
She noted that, however, work has significantly exceeded the agreed duration.
Representatives of Monimechelle Sports Facilities Ltd stated that the project is approximately 90% complete but acknowledged that considerable work remained.
They attributed the delay to unforeseen structural issues, which required the replacement or reconstruction of nearly all components of the stadium, leading to unanticipated financial constraints.
The contractor also cited repeated incidents of theft, including the alleged vandalism and removal of installed cables and pipes, which have further hampered progress and increased costs.
To ensure timely completion, the company has appealed for the release of an additional 15% of the contract sum and assured that, with the requested funds, the renovation will be completed and delivered by Workers’ Day in May.
BSPPC Information Officer, Sylvia Mngohol Ageda, remarked that the DG’s visit reflected the Commission’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of public projects.
“The renovation of Aper Aku Stadium is a key component of the Benue State Government’s broader agenda to enhance sports infrastructure and promote youth development initiatives,” Ageda emphasized.
