Accra, Feb 8, GNA - The Sport Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has urged the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports to award contract for external works at the Essipong Stadium in Takoradi.

The contractors claim that the stadium will remain incomplete if the external works at the site are not tackled.

Ackah Anthony, President of the Association said this in a statement after a visit of the Executive to the Essipong Stadium last Friday to acquaint themselves with the level of work undertaken so far.

He advised that the company be given the nod to carry on the external works to ensure that the quality of work corresponds with the standards and quality set up by the Chinese firm on the stadium.

The SWAG President said that the level of work is encouraging and satisfactory and capable of meeting the deadline set for the completion of the project.

Ackah Anthony tasked the Municipal Assembly to take a serious look at sanitation in the Metropolis and get the city tidied up for the competition which is expected to bring over one million visitors to the country.

"As a body representing sports writers in the country, are of the view that the nation needs to exhibit not just our brand of soccer, but

excellent organizational skills under hygiene conditions. "We must hence avoid a situation where masons, electricians and carpenters are to be seen working at the various stadia, when the tournament gets underway."

Ackah Anthony advised against complacency and urged all to work hard to ensure the successful organization of the tournament to give utter pride and contentment not only to Ghanaians but the whole of African continent.

The SWAG President said that the success story of Ghana at the 2006 World Cup in Germany is still fresh in the minds of many across the globe and was confident that the Ghana CAN 2008 will provide the nation with another great opportunity to further lift the image of the nation.

Arkah Anthony also congratulated the senior national team, the Black Stars for their 4-1 thrashing of the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Tuesday's international friendly, which feat ended the 15 year dominance of the West Africa neighbours over Ghana.

The statement said the performance of the Stars confirms Ghana's position as a major force on the continent when it comes to football.

"It is also an indication of what to expect when Ghana hosts the rest of the continent in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations."