Toba Owojaiye Reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, recently convened a high-profile meeting with top management staff. During this session held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, the Minister unveiled a comprehensive vision aimed at reshaping the future of Nigerian sports.
The proposed vision, spanning the years 2023 to 2027, is set to redefine the nation’s sports profile and enhance its value proposition on a global scale. Senator Owan Enoh emphasized the transformative power of sports, highlighting its impact on physical, psychological, emotional, and social well-being. He urged substantial investments in the sector, envisioning a thriving sports industry contributing 5-7% to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generating an annual net evaluation of 3 to 4 billion dollars by 2027.
“I envision the enablement of a multi-trillion naira sports industry that promotes excellence in sports and fosters talent development,” declared the Minister, emphasizing his commitment to positioning sports as a lucrative business. He aligned himself with the international movement recognizing sports as a powerful means for addressing various development priorities.
In a statement made available to Truth Live News, Senator Owan Enoh praised the endorsement of the National Sports Industry Policy (NSIP) under the Renewed Hope Agenda, affirming sports as a business rather than mere recreation. He commended the creation of a separate Ministry of Sports Development, viewing it as pivotal to providing job opportunities for youth, alleviating poverty, and ensuring a peaceful environment for national development.
Acknowledging the crucial role of seasoned technocrats within the Ministry, the Minister emphasized their significance in realizing the government’s policy objectives. He highlighted the potential for private and corporate sector participation in the sports industry, citing it as a rapidly growing aspect of the global economy.
The Minister pledged to create an enabling environment for sports development, including a welfare system for athletes and activation of the sports business industry. Addressing the Management Staff, he called for their expertise and experience to ensure the full implementation of the ambitious vision.
In response, the Permanent Secretary overseeing the Federal Ministries of Sports and Youth Development, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, expressed full support for the Minister’s efforts. He affirmed the Management’s commitment to implementing the new vision in alignment with the administration’s policy thrust.
As the Federal Ministry of Sports Development charts this transformative course, the nation anticipates a revitalized sports sector that not only entertains but also significantly contributes to economic growth and youth empowerment.
The statement was undersigned by Mohammed Manga, Director, Press and Public Relations