Recreational centres In Bauchi State have become eyesore and it worries children who patronise the centres during festive periods, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
These centres have been alternated with street roaming and house visits by merry-making children
One of the children who spoke to NAN, Aliyu Abdul,11, said the unkept situation of the centres hindered him from “mingling with other children.”
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“When we are in Kaduna during Sallah celebrations we will visit Gamji Parks and many others but in Bauchi you visit only relatives,” Abdul added.
A 15-year-old Ahmed Guda, said: “We need somewhere to go and hang out to celebrate the Sallah because we have nowhere to go and we only end up getting into trouble for moving only on the streets.
“We need a place to flex with some friends and children, we are calling on the government to get us recreational centres like in other states for festivities,” he said.
On her part, Maimuna Gidado, a 16 years old girl, shares the same view with others.
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However, Sylvester Abarshi, a tourism expert, believes that recreational facilities were not a matter of choice rather in urban settings. He said it is part and parcel of a healthy living.
His words: “Recreation has a positive impact on health and it lowers the risk of heart diseases by relieving people from stress.
“Recreational activities help in removing identity, class and cultural barriers among children to form a sensible and inclusive society and thereby contribute to reducing crimes.”
Abarshi , however, urged the government to look into creating additional and functioning parks and recreation centres for children.
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WikkiTimes during Eid-Fitr fiesta had enlisted some centres where children could spend their leisure times. Among the places include, Yankari Games Reserve, Tafawa Balewa Tomb, Wikki Spring Water, Bauchi Emir’s Palace among others.
