NSC Settles Electricity, Water Bills At National Stadium

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has spent N6 million to settle the backlog of electricity and water bills at the National Stadium, Lagos, to ensure regular supplies.

Abolore Alanamu, the Stadium Manager, told newsmen in Lagos on Friday that the bills were paid on July 16.

Alanamu said the bills had accumulated since the last three years before he assumed the headship of the facility.

He said water bill had accumulated to about N9 million while that of electricity was N1.2 million.

“We (NSC and the Lagos State Water Corporation) had to meet ourselves halfway to reduce the backlog to N5m.

“On the same Friday, another N1.2 million was paid to the PHCN and from now on we will continue to enjoy regular supply of these amenities,’’ Alanamu said.

He also that 20 private security men were employed two months ago to beef up security, especially in areas where renovation projects were going on in the stadium.

“A total rehabilitation of the boxing gym has begun in the areas of electrical, mechanical and carpentry works,’’ the stadium manager said.

He, however, said that the flooring of the gym had not started because the rehabilitation of the leaking portions of the roof had not been completed.

“We decided to tarry awhile on the flooring to avoid its damage a second time by the rain. The leakage on the roof damaged portions of the wooden floor,’’ Alanamu said.

He expressed optimism that the contractors would meet the eight-week deadline for the first phase of renovation of facilities in the stadium.

It will be recalled that former Head of State, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, inaugurated the facility in 1972.

Tidesport source gathered that renovation of the knock-up and the indoor multipurpose halls and the Brai Ayonote Boxing Gym have begun.