Toba Owojaiye Reporting
In a recent press release from the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in Abuja, the Nigerian government has issued a compelling call to the National Sports Federations to seek innovative ways to attract private sector investment for the advancement of sports in the country.
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, emphasized that the landscape of sports has evolved from being just a recreational activity to a thriving business. He stressed the need for sports federations to explore avenues to entice both domestic and international private investors, reducing the traditional dependence on government funding.
The Minister highlighted that there is a pool of private sector organizations eager to invest in Nigerian sports. To lure these potential investors, the government has introduced the National Sports Industry Policy (NSIP).
This policy offers incentives such as tax exemptions and rebates, land provision with fee waivers, low-interest loans, and the establishment of an Independent Athletes Welfare Fund to support athletes’ education and training.
Senator Owan Enoh reiterated that the government remains committed to funding sports federations but aims to foster private sector participation to stimulate job creation, alleviate poverty, and enhance national unity.
He underscored the role of sports in promoting social cohesion, unity, peace, and understanding among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups and cultures. The Minister pledged to secure appropriations to support the federations, aligning with the government’s policy objectives.
He encouraged sports federations to develop enticing programs that can attract corporate and private organizations. He expressed optimism that this proactive approach would lead to a significant transformation in Nigeria’s sports sector.
Engr Habu Ahmed Gumel, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, commended the Minister for the critical meeting with key stakeholders and the willingness to address pressing issues faced by the federations. He highlighted upcoming events, including the Winter Youth Olympic Games and the African Games, and stressed the importance of National Federations in nurturing and showcasing sporting talents.
Gumel urged collective efforts in ensuring proper funding and called for collaboration between the sports bodies and the Federal Government, emphasizing the role of responsibility and integrity in their administration.
The call from the Nigerian government is a significant step toward diversifying funding sources for sports development, ensuring long-term sustainability, and fostering a vibrant sports industry in the country. The introduction of the NSIP and the incentives provided reflect a clear commitment to this vision. It now remains to be seen how the sports federations will respond to this call and whether they can successfully attract private sector investment to elevate Nigerian sports to new heights.