By EDWARD OSEGHE
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has reiterated the Commission’s determination to transform every state in Nigeria into a hub for sports development.
Speaking on the sidelines of the African Athletics Championship (CAA) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Olopade said the creation of a strong sports ecosystem across the country would empower youths, stimulate economic growth, and enhance national development.
“I have spent nearly 30 years in sports, and I’ve seen how it transforms lives, especially our youth.
“When every state has the right structure, you solve half of the problems. Youths become engaged, productive, and peaceful, creating an environment conducive to investment and development,” he said.
He commended Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Ogun States for their investments in sports infrastructure and programmes, noting that Ogun State has recently hosted the Super Falcons, Flying Eagles, the National Sports Festival, and now the African Athletics Championship.
Olopade identified Enugu State as an emerging sports destination, citing its government’s strategic plans to use sports as a tool for economic and SME development.
“Enugu is positioning itself to host the National Sports Festival, which is a smart move. Sports draws people in, fuels enterprise, creates jobs, and drives local economies. With their plans, Enugu could become a major sporting hub in a few years,” he said.
The sports chief called for a broader vision that promotes various sports across all regions.
“Kano has strong roots in football and basketball, but we also want to see badminton, volleyball, cricket, and rugby flourish there. This will only happen when we start seeing sports not just as a billion-dollar industry, but as a tool for youth empowerment and national growth,” Olopade added.
He concluded that with sustained investment and collective effort, Nigeria is on track for a golden era where every state becomes a centre of sporting excellence.
