Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, says the federal government will recommend the Sokoto State modern sports arena for international sports events when completed.

“With what we have seen here, meeting international standards, the federal government will put up this as one of the sports infrastructures that will be recommended for international events,” Mr Dare said.

The minister spoke after he was led to the sports arena by Governor Aminu Tambuwal where he inspected the facility undergoing construction.

He described the sports facilities at the stadium as massive and impressive, and pointed out that they met international standards.

“We have a similar one in Edo and another one in Lagos State. We are glad that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja is back on stream and when you look at it, we need so many more for a country of our size, 220 million, for the reputation we have as a sports nation.

“The number of sports infrastructure we have is just less than 20 per cent of what we need,” he noted.

The minister expressed the belief that when completed the facility would keep the youths busy, generate revenue for the state, as well as foster unity in the state and Nigeria.

Some of the facilities inspected by the minister include the 2,000-capacity indoor games hall.

It is expected to accommodate all the indoor sports activities, such as lawn tennis, hockey, badminton, squash, among others, when completed.

(NAN)