The management of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, has announced the immediate closure of the stadium following a reported credible security threat, directing all users to vacate the facility while access remains suspended until further notice.

The directive, issued in an official security notice on Monday, said the decision followed information received from the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters regarding a potential security risk affecting the stadium. Blueprint reports

According to the notice, all entrances to the stadium were scheduled to be closed from the night of August 3, 2026, with no individual permitted to access the facility until a fresh directive is issued by the Police Headquarters.

Immediate closure ordered

The stadium management said the measure was taken as a precaution to safeguard lives and property pending further security assessment by relevant authorities.

It advised all individuals currently within the stadium premises to leave immediately in an orderly manner.

“No entry will be permitted once the closure takes effect,” the notice stated.

The management added that security personnel had been deployed to enforce the temporary closure and ensure full compliance with the directive.

Users urged to cooperate

The management appealed to athletes, sports enthusiasts, officials and other regular users of the facility to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies throughout the period of the closure.

It also urged members of the public to avoid loitering around the stadium gates while security operations are ongoing.

According to the notice, the temporary restriction is aimed solely at protecting lives and maintaining public safety.

The management assured users that further information would be communicated as soon as guidance is received from the Police Headquarters.

Major national sporting facility

The Moshood Abiola National Stadium, built in 2003, is Nigeria’s premier sports complex and serves as the venue for numerous national and international sporting events, including football matches, athletics competitions and other recreational activities.

The facility is also widely used by athletes, fitness enthusiasts and sports clubs for daily training and exercise.

The Stadium in 2003 hosted the iconic All African Games.

Given its strategic importance and the large number of people who visit the complex daily, security authorities are expected to carry out the necessary assessments before normal activities resume.

Awaiting further directive

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not disclosed the nature of the reported threat, while the temporary closure remained in force.

Stadium management reiterated its commitment to the safety of facility users and urged the public to await official updates before returning to the complex.

The management thanked users for their understanding and cooperation, expressing confidence that normal activities would resume once security authorities declare the facility safe for public use.