Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, the Chief of the National Sports Authority (NSA), has voiced his frustration over the deteriorating condition of Bo Stadium during his first tour of the regional sports facilities.

Speaking to stakeholders on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Bo Stadium, Dr. Abdulai criticized the poor management of the facility.

“If things continue this way, we will privatize it. Repairing this facility will cost the Government millions of dollars. This is the only Government-owned facility in the regions that hosts other sporting competitions. The councils need to provide oversight on its running and management.”

“This Stadium, if managed well, will employ many people in the Southern Region. Water facilities and security are needed at the Stadium now,” Dr. Abdulai emphasized to stakeholders.

Local Court Chairman John A. Sabondo expressed his appreciation for the assessment of Bo Stadium for the first time since it was commissioned a decade ago. 

“I feel absolutely dissatisfied with the condition of the Stadium. This is our property, and we need to manage it properly. We need to form a management committee for the land that has been grabbed, as well as for the other facilities of the Stadium. We will do everything as chiefdom authorities to protect and maintain the land,” he stated.

Madam Alberta Baindu Kowa, Deputy Chairperson of the Bo District Council, appreciated the Council's inclusion in the assessment process. She remarked, “It would not be good for us if this facility is privatized. As a council, we will meet and take positive decisions on this.”

Ibrahim J.B. Kulagbanda, representing the Sierra Leone Police, added that the police have been providing security at the Stadium since its inception.

Ishaqa S. Jalloh

Ishaqajalloh@sierraleonews.com

+23278799279