Special to USAfrica magazine (Houston) and USAfricaonline.com, first African-owned, US-based newspaper published on the Internet.
A temporary closure of Nigeria’s old National Stadium in Lagos, due to the collapse of a floodlight mast, has been ordered by the Minister of Youths and Sport Development, Sunday Dare.
He made a scheduled visit to the stadium on Friday, April 21, 2023.
In his statement today, Saturday, April 22, he said:
“Thank God there was no casualty. I also inspected the three other light masts and the effects of age and weather elements were visible, clearly, they are also a suspect after 51 years.
Based on my assessment, advice of experts and in the interest of public safety, there will be a temporary closure of the stadium and surrounding facilities; proper assessment and necessary action will be taken soon.”
Dare added that
“The concession process towards fully privatising the Surulere stadium which began last year will be expedited by the Federal Government through the ICRC towards a comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrade of the 51 years old edifice.
We have decided to be on the side of caution, hence the decision to impose extensive restrictions around the stadium.
We request the cooperation of anyone who this decision may inconvenience as we cannot ascertain the reality on the ground.”
Hi there!
I am glad to read the article about Federal Government’s decision to close Surulere Stadium after 51 years due to safety reasons.
Sadly, a stadium that has served many purposes for over five decades will be shut down.
Nonetheless, I understand the need for caution and support the government’s decision.
I commend the government’s effort in expediting the concession process towards fully privatizing the sporting arena and upgrading its infrastructure as it has been standing since 1969.
It is a wise move as it would help ensure public safety, especially considering its poor condition due to inadequate repairs over time.
The rehabilitation of such facilities should not be taken lightly, and necessary action needs to be taken quickly before the situation worsens.
It is, however, disheartening such a decision had to be taken due to a lack of maintenance by the government for many years.
This could have been avoided if proper funding and resources had been allocated to upkeep and maintain Federal facilities like Surulere Stadium.
Furthermore, I find it ironic that while other countries invest in sporting infrastructure, Nigerians have no choice but to demolish theirs for safety reasons.
Given its deteriorated condition over time, I believe the Federal Government’s decision is necessary and commendable.
Hopefully, with the privatization process comes better management of resources and improved sports facilities for Nigerians to enjoy in the future.
I hope this will open the door for more investment in sports and the overall development of sporting infrastructure.