By Saheed Afolabi
Grassroots footballers have expressed their eagerness to return to field, saying there is no reason for continuous shutting down of footballing while some other activities have been reopened.
This came as a reaction to the statement recently made by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare that the return of sporting activities would be determined by Nigeria’s Covid-19 status.
Dare had noted that though sport lovers are eager to re-open sport centres, only the Presidential Task Force (PTF) has the power to allow the return of sports.
“Sadly there is still a journey ahead, the PTF will give the signal to go ahead when they are sure we are all safe. On our part, we are being proactive by putting in place necessary protocols,” he said.
The Minister also said that the ministry intends to have necessary protective materials in place at major government sport centers and that the awareness campaign on Covid-19 prevention would be taken to all sportsmen and women.
Reacting, Taiwo Agbaje who plays for Ysdron Sport FC of Isolo as a goalkeeper said: “I don’t see any reason why football will not be allowed to resume despite the fact that other non- contact sports like athletics are allowed. The government only needs to ensure that hand sanitizers, soap and water are available at each sport center scattered across the grassroots.”
Yusuf Showemimo who resides in Ejigbo described the action and plan of the sport ministry as a good one which is in the best interest of players and athletes at large.
