In a bold move that underscores his commitment to grassroots development, Senator Sulaiman Sadiq Umar has thrown his full support behind the grading and upgrade of the Government Day Secondary School, Karuma field, popularly known as Akerebiata Wembley.
The intervention is widely seen as a strategic investment in youth empowerment, community cohesion, and the long-term growth of sports in Kwara State.
Senator Umar is representing Kwara North at the National Assembly.
The upgrading, facilitated by the Kwara State Football Association, being led by Mallam Idris Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, was in actualization of his second term manifesto, aimed at upgrading and building local pitches to boost grassroots football.
For years, Akerebiata Wembley has been the heartbeat of local football and youth activities in Karuma and its environs. Despite its popularity, the field’s poor condition limited its full potential.
Uneven surfaces, waterlogging during the rainy season, and the absence of basic facilities often discouraged structured training and competitive fixtures. Senator Umar’s backing for the grading project marks a turning point, transforming the pitch into a safer, standard-playing surface that can host regular matches, training sessions, and community tournaments.
One of the most immediate benefits of the upgraded field is increased youth participation in sports. A properly graded pitch provides a conducive environment for training, reduces the risk of injuries, and encourages more young people to take up football and other field sports.
With Akerebiata Wembley set for a facelift, schools, academies, and community teams will have access to a reliable venue to nurture raw talent and instill discipline, teamwork, and leadership among young people.
The project also aligns with broader goals of using sports as a tool for social development. By keeping youths engaged in positive activities, the initiative helps curb social vices and promotes healthy lifestyles. It offers an alternative pathway for young talents who aspire to professional careers in sports while also supporting those who simply want a safe space to play and grow.
Beyond the sporting impact, the grading of Akerebiata Wembley carries clear economic and social benefits. Local tournaments and inter-school competitions will attract visitors, vendors, and small businesses, injecting life into the community’s micro-economy. The improved facility can also create opportunities for local coaches, referees, groundsmen, and event organizers.
Community pride is another powerful outcome.
Senator Sulaiman Sadiq Umar’s support for the grading of Akerebiata Wembley sends a strong message about the importance of investing at the base of the sports pyramid. By prioritizing facilities where young people learn, train, and compete, he is laying a foundation for sustainable sports development in Kwara State.
As the work progresses, expectations are high that Akerebiata Wembley will not only regain its status as a beloved community ground but also evolve into a standard venue capable of hosting organized competitions and structured youth programmes. In doing so, the project will stand as a lasting legacy—proof that when leaders invest in youth and sports, they invest in the future of their communities.
