On Saturday, the Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, announced the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, would temporarily shut down following the collapse of a floodlight mast.
Dare's statement came after he inspected the fallen mast. The News Agency of Nigeria stated that Dare had already visited the stadium on Friday, and he promised to take appropriate action after assessing the situation. Following his stadium tour, the minister ordered the facility's closure to prevent any unanticipated incidents.
“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 privatizing 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.
