Dare: Sports Ministry to impose extensive restrictions at National stadium, Lagos

Youth and Sports Development Minister, Sunday Dare says there is the need to impose extensive restrictions around the National stadium in Surulere, Lagos following the floodlight mast that broke in half and collapsed from the rainstorm last Wednesday.

Dare, on an inspection visit to the stadium Friday morning said in a series of tweets on his tweeter handle that the move became necessary to avert disaster.

‘Friday morning at 7am I inspected the floodlight mast that broke in half and collapsed from the rainstorm last Wednesday.

Thank God there was no casualty. I also inspected the 3 other light masts and the effects of age and weather elements were visible clearly, they are also suspect after 51 years.

‘Based on my assessment, advice of experts and in the interest of public safety, the Ministry will announce shortly the temporary closure of the stadium and surrounding facilities for proper assessment and necessary action.

‘The concession process towards fully privatizing the Surulere stadium which began last year will be expidited by the Federal Government through the ICRC towards a comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrade of the 51 years old edifice.

‘We have decided to err 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 the reality on the ground,’ the Sports Minister wrote.