In an effort to revamp sports infrastructure in Nigeria, the government has handed over the responsibility of its depleting stadiums to the state government.
Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode declared the state government’s commitment to refurbishing its National Stadium, as well as Enugu Stadium and Calabar Stadium.
Alongside the Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, and Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick, an extensive tour of the facilities was carried out to inspect the conditions of the once monumental National landmark in the presence of other government dignitaries.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”This visit is very historic,”[/perfectpullquote]
Governor Ambode said.
“I recall that during our campaign, we promised that we are going to use tourism, entertainment, and arts and sports to drive youth employment as well as drive excellence.
“So, this is just one chapter in that roadmap to growing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Lagos.”
Governor Ambode will hope the National Stadium will re-establish its status as a community-bonding facility as well as build opportunities for development.
“With the state of affairs here, we cannot fold our arms and just leave this monument to just waste away.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”The last match that was played here was about fifteen years ago but the truth is this, the inner key to youth empowerment and youth employment is actually in re-establishing this edifice to its real world class standard,”[/perfectpullquote]
Ambode added.
“What we ask for in Lagos is not as if we are being aggressive, we just think that we need to stand up for leadership here and take over the National Stadium.”
The Nigerian government has already made plans to construct five stadia in the five administrative divisions of the State to boost the growth of sports but, the obligation to maintain its sports facilities remains amiss.
Featured photo: In the foreground, Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode (L), Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung (C) and Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick (R) during an inspection visit to the National Stadium in Lagos, Nigeria. (PREMIUM TIMES / Ben Ezeamalu)
