The Oyo State Ministry of Youths and Sports has announced plans to introduce a Utility Card designed for streamlined payments at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. This groundbreaking initiative was revealed in a statement by Honourable Wasilat Adegoke, the state’s Commissioner for Youths and Sports, made available to reporters in Ibadan.
Honourable Adegoke emphasized that this utility card represents a significant advancement in payment processing within West Africa, marking the first of its kind to be launched at a stadium in the region. "The innovative utility card will transform how users engage with the stadium, providing a hassle-free cashless experience for sports enthusiasts and others attending events," she stated.
According to the Commissioner, the Utility Card aims to enhance efficiency and convenience in managing access to stadium services, making it easier for fans to enjoy their time at the venue. "This initiative is part of our broader strategy to modernize sports infrastructure and elevate service delivery across all sporting facilities in Oyo State. The Oyo State Utility Card will function as a versatile payment tool for ticketing, parking, concessions, and various other services," Adegoke explained.
Priced at ₦500, the Utility Card can be easily recharged through bank apps, POS devices, or directly at the stadium, offering users a range of convenient options. The state plans to implement the card's integration into the stadium’s payment system in phases, with regular updates to keep the public informed and ensure a smooth transition.
The Commissioner reiterated that the new card system would diminish dependence on cash transactions, enabling quicker and more efficient payments. She urged the public, sports enthusiasts, and stakeholders to embrace this innovation, highlighting it as another significant milestone in Governor Seyi Makinde's ongoing commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and providing world-class services to the residents of Oyo State.