Niger Tornadoes have elected to adopt the Lafia City Stadium in Nasarawa State as their temporary home ground until the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna is certified fit to host Nigeria Premier Football League matches.
Niger Tornadoes have confirmed that all their home fixtures will now be played at the Lafia City Stadium, Lafia, following concerns over the state of their traditional home ground, the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna. The decision comes after the Nigeria Premier Football League tightened its facility and broadcast standards, compelling clubs to ensure their venues meet upgraded technical, safety and television requirements.
The Minna-based side turned to Lafia after their home ground was deemed unsuitable for NPFL games, with reports highlighting issues around the pitch and infrastructure that fell short of the league’s current benchmarks. League officials had previously warned that stadiums failing to satisfy club licensing and broadcast criteria would be withdrawn from the list of approved match venues, forcing affected clubs to relocate.
In response, Tornadoes management opted for the Lafia City Stadium, which already hosts topflight football and is on the NPFL’s roster of approved grounds. Club officials have expressed hope that ongoing remedial work in Minna will accelerate the upgrade of the Bako Kontagora Stadium so that the team can return to play in front of their home fans as soon as it is recertified.
The move to Lafia is expected to pose logistical and financial challenges for the club and its supporters, who must now undertake longer trips for ‘home’ games. However, the decision also offers Tornadoes an opportunity to maintain continuity in their NPFL campaign while aligning with the league’s broader push to improve matchday experience, broadcast quality and overall brand value.
