By Wilson Adekumola
The Minister of Youths and Sport Development, Sunday Dare, has explained why he announced the temporary closure of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
The minister made this explanation in a statement on Saturday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Dare had paid a scheduled visit to the stadium on Friday to inspect the collapsed floodlight mast.
Dare, however, ordered the closure of the stadium for safety purpose after his tour around the sports facility
“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.
“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,” said the minister.
