The Nnamdi Azikiwe Statium, Enugu and the University of Nigeria , Enugu Campus (UNEC) Stadium, have been shut down for refurbishment ahead of the U-17 World Cup, " Nigeria 2009".

Mr Taiwo Oladeinde, the Manager, Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, confirmed in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), that the stadium was shut down for repairs on the facilities.

According to him, the contractors say they will mobilise to sites on Thursday. When NAN visited the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, preliminary pegging of the main pitch has already commenced. He said that members of the public will be kept off the facility so as to avoid injuries as well as distractions to the contractors. The UNEC Stadium and the Rangers training pitches have also been shut for repairs. Meanwhile, many state athletes currently preparing for the National Sports Festival have become stranded as they are yet to get alternative venues for their training. (NAN)