Operators of recreational parks within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday complained of low patronage as Nigerians celebrate this year’s Christmas.
In separate interviews with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, the park operators attributed the poor patronage to the current security challenge facing the country.
According to reports, some of the parks report that there was lull in activities at the facilities in spite of the festive season.
Mr Abdulatif Olaosebikan, Head, Programmes and Events, FCTA Parks and Recreation Department, told NAN that the parks had provided numerous experiences for Nigerians during festive occasions.
Olaosebikan said that the security situation in the country might have contributed to the low turnout of people at the parks.
He, however, advised Nigerians to be security conscious and support the Federal Government in the fight against insurgency for peace to reign supreme in the country.
“The parks and recreation department is collaborating with the Jabi Lake users to package some events basically for the festive season.
“But it is obvious that the turnout is a bit low and the only reason for this is the security situation report that we have gotten in the country.
“I will rather advise Nigerians not to panic but only be security conscious and support the government in its fight against insurgency,” he said.
A fun seeker in the park, Mrs Atinuke Ademola, expressed shock over recent security developments in parts of the country.
Ademola, who was out to celebrate with her family, however, attributed the low turnout to paucity of money to celebrate the Christmas.
“It is obvious that many civil servants are yet to be paid their salary and if this is so, how do you expect them to come out and celebrate with their family.
“Celebration is all about money and the government should fast track a means to pay this salary as there is still more time to celebrate because the New Year is still there,” he urged.
