A former Sports Minister of Nigeria, Sunday Dare has applauded Ghana for its ability to host the 13th African Games against all odds which, he noted, threatened the tournament.
The 13th edition of the African Games should have been held last year but after the unforeseen global covid-19 pandemic affecting Ghana’s preparations, the country sought for an eight month extension which was duly granted by the African Union (AU).
“I think we must commend the President of Ghana, the Minister for Youth and Sports of Ghana, Ussif, because when you look back 10 months ago, it was almost impossible that this would take place and Ghana requested for 8 months extra to be able to put everything in place,” Sunday Dare stated.
He added; “We have seen what they have done. We have seen a brand new stadium at the University where we are right now. We have seen a games village and we have seen on display the absolute commitment of the Government of Ghana and the efforts of the Minister and his team.”
As a member of the AU Committee which decided to give Ghana an extended time to prepare, the former Nigerian Sports Minister expressed delight that Ghana has been able to host the Games to keep the tradition of the African Games.
“I have been to the games and I think that this is commendable. I was the Chairman of the African Union team last year when we took the decision to extend the time for Ghana to be able to prepare. I’m happy that in 8 months, Ghana has been able to pull this together.”
“It’s a pride for Africa that 54 countries are gathered here, 29 sports and 7 different venues for the 13th edition of the African Games.”
“It requires a lot to host the African Games. It requires the political will and support of the government of the country. It requires a minister and Ministry of Sports that is up and running and has the political zeal to pull it through. It requires all the support of stakeholders in the sports architecture; the athletes, the federations, and all those involved, coming together and working together to make this happen.”
“I am a dedicated sports enthusiast, of course by virtue of being a former sports Minister and I have decided to come to Ghana and be part of this because this is Africa’s Olympics.”
“I hope that very soon Nigeria will be able to host this again because I know efforts are afoot to make sure that our infrastructure is up and running. Nigeria desires to host not just an African competition but another global competition.”
Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana
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