Sports Minister Taoheed Adedoja says the National Stadium in Lagos, along with other dilapidated sporting facilities in the country will be renovated and re_opened for use ‘in a few weeks time’.

He said a similar thing  two months ago, but nothing has happened to the facilities in question.

Adedoja told members of Nigeria’s African Youth Championship_winning squad that the move is part of President Goodluck Jonathan’s policy to give sports the kick up the backside it needs.

“The message from Mr President is that he trusts you. You are very very young and he would like to assure you that you have a future in football, and he is willing to invest in that future.

“We want to assure you that in a few weeks time, facilities like the National Stadium Surulere and others all over the country will be back working.”

The Stadium was last used in April 2004, when Nigeria’s second string side, under Christian Chukwu, were beaten 1_0 by Senegal in the Final of the LG Cup, but Adedoja says the days of playing in Nigeria’s football home will soon return.

“The National Stadium, for instance, has not been used in years. It will be upgraded and re_opened in a few weeks so that young people like you can have a place to express their talents again.”

Further, Adedoja said his ministry will also renovate and upgrade hostels nationwide.
“All the hostels we have all over the country will be upgraded and turned into hotels where athletes can stay.”

The Minister did not stop there, assuring the footballers of medical insurance on and off the pitch. plus continuing education for athletes who desire it.

“The NSC has packaged continuing education for sports people who did not finish secondary education so that they can continue to play while acquiring education.

“And for those who aspire to higher education, the same thing will happen.

“We have also put in a programme of comprehensive insurance for all athletes both in and out of competition, so you can all compete with peace of mind.

“Because you are giving your best for this country, this country will also give its best for you.”