The Gambia is set to honour football legend Biri Biri with a lasting national tribute in his own homeland, Minister of Youths and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, announced at the 9th Stakeholder Forum held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Centre.

“For decades, football fans, sports and civic leaders, and other stakeholders and citizens have advocated for an enduring national tribute to Biri Biri here in his own homeland. In response, we are naming the covered pavilion of the Independence Stadium as the Biri Biri Pavilion,” he said.

He explained that the Ministry of Youths and Sports proposed the initiative and received approval from President Adama Barrow.

The pavilion will be officially unveiled once the stadium’s ongoing renovation is completed.

“This tribute ensures that future generations of Gambians will remember and celebrate the legacy of one of our greatest sporting icons,” he added, noting that the naming also underscores the government’s commitment to preserving the country’s sports heritage.

Fans and stakeholders have welcomed the announcement as a fitting recognition for a figure who has shaped the nation’s football history, while inspiring young athletes and fostering civic pride.

By Adama Makasuba