U. J. Esuene Stadium

The U. J. Esuene Stadium is a multi-purpose facility in Calabar with a grass field, electronic scoreboard, modern floodlights, and tiered seating throughout. These sections accommodate thousands of spectators with clear views of the playing surface.

The stadium opened in 1977 with an inaugural match between Bendel Insurance Football Club and local team Calabar Rovers. Since then, it has served as a major venue for football competitions in the region.

The stadium serves as a gathering place where local fans cheer for Calabar Rovers while singing traditional Nigerian football songs. Matches here bring the community together in shared celebration and pride.

The venue is accessible most days and has several entrance gates along with ample parking for visitors. Arriving early is wise, especially on match days, when large crowds enter the stadium at the same time.

The stadium hosted eight matches during the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup, including a quarter-final between South Korea and Nigeria. This international tournament brought global attention to the venue.

Location: Calabar

Inception: 1977

Capacity: 25000

GPS coordinates: 4.96756,8.32686

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11