Some residents of the Bauchi metropolis have expressed concern over the lack of recreational facilities in the area, which has deprived them of the benefits of leisure during festivities.
A cross-section of the residents, who spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi, said the trend negatively affected their state of mind during the festive periods.
They, therefore, advocated an upgrade of existing facilities to enable them to celebrate the season in a happy mood.
Mr John Isaac, a resident, said the lack of functional recreational centres forced most families in the area to travel to Jos, to celebrate the season.
- Blasphemy: Abduljabbar’s followers to appeal death sentence
- Tambuwal to Nigerians: Send APC out of power with your PVCs
“The mini parks are obsolete and need upgrading to attract visitors.
“When I noticed the level of disappointment in my children, we travelled to Jos to access a more satisfying facility where we had fun,” he said.
Another fun seeker, David Aremu, said he, along with his children, visited Yankari Game Reserve to have fun.
He said the rehabilitation of the existing facilities would enhance social life, boost businesses, and increase the state’s revenue base.
Also, Ms Suzan Martins said she celebrated the season indoors, due to lack of standard recreational facilities in the metropolis.
She advocated for private sector investment to encourage the development of amusement and recreational parks in the state.
According to her, recreation is important for all ages, and crucial during children’s formative years.
“Socialisation through recreational activities is needed to support their social-emotional maturity into healthy adulthood,” she said.
She urged the government and businesses to invest in the tourism sector to give children a sense of belonging.
On his part; Ali Garba called for the upgrade of such facilities to meet the needs of the growing population.
“It will be a great joy if the state government can build a centre where children can satisfy their needs during festive periods like Sallah, Easter and Christmas,” he said. (NAN)
