Topic: Creating a Sustainable Sports Culture in Nigeria: Engagement, Participation, and Legacy on AlimoshoTv WhatsApp
Nigeria’s sports sector is at a critical crossroads, plagued by dismal performances in recent times. At the last Olympics Games in Paris, we returned with no medals despite sending over 100 athletes and spending billions of naira.
Even the Paralympics saw a decline, with only two gold medals, compared to five in the previous Tokyo edition. The Super Eagles struggled in World Cup qualifiers, and Nigeria failed to qualify for the last World Cup in Qatar.
Nigerian clubs underperform in continental championships, losing leadership positions in sports like table tennis, lawn tennis, weightlifting, and athletics.
In the past, Nigeria excelled in these areas, producing legends like Atanda Musa, Yomi Bankole, Olawunmi Majekodunmi, and Kuburat Owolabi in table tennis. We dominated the Commonwealth and led Africa in athletics.
To revitalize Nigerian sports, we must:
– Revive grassroots programs: Principal Cup, Ramat Cup, Shell Cup, and Pepsi Cup for Universities.
– Restore the National School Sports Festival, focusing on youth participation.
– Upgrade and build new facilities, including recreation areas.
– Develop internationally acclaimed competitions like lawn tennis championships.
The downturn in Nigeria’s economic fortunes, coupled with military rule and devaluation of the Naira, contributed to the decline. Collective efforts are necessary to restore Nigeria’s sports glory.
As veteran journalist Musbau Rasak emphasized, “It’s simple: let’s go back to the grassroots, let’s go back to the basics.”
