The House Committee on Sports has expressed serious concerns over the declining state of sports facilities and general sporting activities in Nigeria. In an effort to address the challenges and reposition the sector, the newly constituted committee plans to engage all stakeholders in order to elevate Nigerian sports to a higher level. This was disclosed during the committee's inaugural meeting, chaired by Honourable Kabiru Amadu.
Speaking at the meeting, Honourable Amadu acknowledged the dismal state of sports in the country but vowed to make a significant difference. He emphasized that the committee is fully aware of the enormous challenges it faces, but they are determined to turn things around. "There is no doubt that we have a big task ahead of us to reposition this committee for optimum performance," he said.
Honourable Amadu highlighted the potential of sports as a tool for national development. He stressed that if properly harnessed, sports can help reduce crime and unemployment while also generating substantial foreign exchange for the country. "Sports is a veritable instrument of reducing crime and unemployment if optimally pursued. It generates big foreign exchange for countries all over the world," he remarked.
The committee chair revealed a concerning statistic about the country’s sports federations. Out of over 40 federations, fewer than 20 are currently functional, and only about five receive adequate funding. This, he said, is unacceptable and must be addressed. "The committee will engage the appropriate authorities and will thoroughly look into all the challenges affecting these federations to overcome them for the betterment of our youth and Nigerians at large."
Reflecting on Nigeria's disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Honourable Amadu noted that the failure to win a single medal was a wake-up call for the nation. He assured that the committee would focus on resolving the underlying issues that have plagued Nigerian sports for years. "This and many other embedded issues surrounding sports in Nigeria will be addressed passionately and with sincerity of purpose," he added.
A major concern raised by the chairman was the dilapidated state of sports facilities across the country, particularly the national stadia. He called for urgent action to restore and maintain these infrastructures, emphasizing that proper funding is key. "The issue of decaying sporting infrastructure, especially the National Stadia, should be urgently looked into and addressed through adequate budgetary allocation," he said.
Honourable Amadu also outlined the committee's vision for sustainable sports development. He proposed a comprehensive plan that includes grassroots programs, improved training facilities, medical support systems, and strategic player rotation aimed at boosting football and other sports in Nigeria. "The committee envisages a sustainable development plan to promote football development and other sporting activities across the nation," he explained.
In addition to his plans for the future, Honourable Amadu took time to thank the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abass, and the leadership of the House for entrusting him with the responsibility of heading the sports committee. He expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him to steer the committee during such a critical period.
Lastly, the chairman paid tribute to the late Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, the previous chair of the committee, praising his dedication and leadership. Honourable Amadu acknowledged Adams’ efforts in successfully piloting the committee before his untimely passing and vowed to build on his legacy.
With clear goals and a strong sense of purpose, the House Committee on Sports is poised to tackle the numerous challenges in Nigeria's sports sector. Stakeholders and sports enthusiasts alike are hopeful that this renewed focus will lead to meaningful reforms and improved performances in future sporting events.
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