Experts Push for Smart Investment in Nigerian Sports

Leading figures in Nigeria's sports scene are calling for transparency, better facilities, and ongoing investment to help the sector grow over time.

This message came out during the 11th Ladies in Sports International Summit held in Lagos over the weekend. Policymakers, sports leaders, investors, and advocates gathered to discuss the future of sports in Nigeria and Africa.

Key speakers included Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission; Kemi Adeosun, a former Minister of Finance; Yemi Idowu, a philanthropist and National Patron of the Nigeria School Sport Federation; and Tega Onojaife, the founder of the summit.

Adeosun highlighted the need for good governance. She said that lasting success needs more than just building sports facilities.
"Transparency, accountability, and athlete-centred policies are essential for a thriving sports industry. Structures must be built for sports to thrive, and stakeholders must remain committed to the process," she stated.

Idowu shared his views on how governments and businesses should see sports as a way to help society, not just a way to make money.
"If your intention in sports is profit alone, then you have missed its true purpose. Sports is fundamentally a social service, offering disadvantaged youth opportunities to rise above poverty and build meaningful livelihoods," he explained.

He also called for more public funding for facilities and youth programs, urging local assessments to ensure that infrastructure meets community needs.

Olopade, the NSC DG, talked about current NSC projects that aim to create a better environment, boost private-sector partnerships, and open new economic doors.

Onojaife, the summit's convener, looked back on how the event has grown in ten years. She credited the support from key players, including former NFF Vice-President Seyi Akinwunmi, for keeping the platform alive.

She mentioned that the summit started to empower women and girls in sports while encouraging leadership and investment in the field.
This year's theme, "Beyond the Games: Power, Profit and Purpose," shows that people are increasingly seeing sports as a way to drive economic growth, social change, and nation-building.

The one-day event brought together media professionals, executives, and experts to discuss ways to make sports more sustainable, inclusive, and profitable.