At the newly renovated Maracana Stadium, the minister advocates for backing grassroots development
"New Maracana Stadium, located in Ajegunle, Lagos State, played host to the Minister of Sports Development, John Owan Enoh. The minister called for increased private sector involvement in the development of sports facilities across the nation. He also expressed the Federal Government's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the country's sports sector.
The minister was highly impressed by the state-of-the-art amenities at the refurbished Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle, Lagos State, during his visit over the weekend. He announced that the current administration is open to private-public sector partnerships with individuals and organizations willing to contribute to the sector's growth.
During the facility tour, the Minister was accompanied by notable figures such as the Oniru of Iru, HRH Abdulwasiu Omogbbolahan Lawal; Chairman of Ajeromi Ifelodun Council, Fatai Ayoola; Olu of Iwa and Apapa kingdom, Oba Mohammadu Oluwa; Lagos State Commissioner of Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, as well as Chairman of the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation, Chief Yemi Idowu, and other dignitaries. The minister lauded the complex, describing it as a model for what sports facilities should aspire to be.
He remarked, "The Maracana Sports Complex, for me, is both a showpiece and a showcase, and this is the way our sports should go. I now understand why people kept talking about this place. It's also quite astonishing that you can find something positive, something that you can showcase to the rest of the country located here in Ajegunle; it speaks volume."
The minister went on to emphasize the importance of strong will, commitment, and passion in achieving such developments. He praised the public-private partnership model and the enabling environment created by the Lagos State government, as well as the dedication of individuals like Yemi Idowu and the local government.
HRH Abdulwasiu Omogbbolahan Lawal, who proposed the location of the complex in Ajegunle, commended the Nathaniel Idowu Foundation for supporting the idea, and expressed gratitude for the minister's visit.
Yemi Idowu, whose foundation sponsored the facility's reconstruction, also expressed his gratitude to the local community for their support. He outlined the ongoing and future plans for the complex, which include additional facilities like a swimming pool, table tennis, tennis, and basketball, along with a recreation hall, canteen, kitchen, and more. These enhancements are intended to create a positive environment and reduce social issues within the community."
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