Residents of Mararaba in the Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State have called on private individuals and government agencies to provide more recreation centres for relaxation during festive seasons.

The residents, who spoke in separate interviews on Tuesday, said creating more centres would reduce overcrowding, stress and enhance a conducive environment for families, especially those reluctant to visit the area due to the crowd.

Cletus Uhumi, a businessman, said having more than one recreation centre in the area would motivate people to take their loved ones out.

Mr Uhumi said a vibrant and equipped recreation centre would stabilise the lives of young people, as it provided safe spaces for physical activities.

“We all know the importance of recreation centres based on the role it plays in human life; it offers greater pleasure in life, especially in this hardship.

“Recreation centres develop a strong, healthy environment for a better lifestyle of the public, based on the various facilities that serve as a source of human comfort,” he said.

Chisom Eze, a housewife, said to ensure a healthy environment, more recreation centres should be created due to the population in  Mararaba and New Nyanya areas.

According to her, the recreation centres are significant in the reduction of stress and high blood pressure, as well as enable a person to forget some challenges for a while.

“Recreation centres also provide gathering places for families and social groups as well as individuals of all ages.

“Parks and recreation centres should be a priority for government at all levels, as such, will provide places for health and well-being for all ages and abilities, including the disabilities,” she said.

Also, a banker, Emmanuel Johnson, said creating more recreation centres would reduce crime among the youth in the area.

Mr Johnson noted that the centres would create job opportunities for people and, in turn, reduce poverty in society.

(NAN)