The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hulayat Omidiran, has stated that Nigeria’s sports industry can add over 50 percent to the country's Gross Domestic Product if we invest wisely and create good policies.
Mrs Omidiran shared this during a visit from the National Executive Committee of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN). The visit was led by SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin, at the Commission’s office in Abuja.
A former member of the Executive Board of the Nigeria Football Federation and the FIFA Women’s Football Committee, Mrs Omidiran sees sports as a strong force for economic growth, youth empowerment, and national unity.
“Sports is more than entertainment; it keeps communities together, strengthens families, and, if properly harnessed, can contribute more than 50 percent of a nation’s GDP. Nigeria is not there yet, but this administration is genuinely committed to unlocking the immense benefits of a vibrant sporting ecosystem,” she said.
She emphasized the Federal Government’s dedication to making sports a key player in economic development and social harmony.
During the visit, Mrs Omidiran also accepted her new role as the first National Matron of SWAN.
She described the honor as a privilege and promised to support the association and its activities fully.
“I accepted immediately because it is a great honor. I will not be a silent matron. When I am with you, you will know I am with you. The Federal Character Commission will stand with SWAN, and I will support your programmes in every way possible,” she said.
Earlier, Mr Benjamin congratulated Mrs Omidiran on her transformative leadership of the Commission. He praised her for promoting transparency, engaging stakeholders, and committing to fairness.
He also recognized her efforts in sports administration, especially in advancing women’s football and sports development in Nigeria.
“You have consistently demonstrated that sports are not merely about competition but a powerful instrument for leadership, youth empowerment, social inclusion, and national development. Your remarkable journey continues to inspire generations of sports administrators, journalists, and young Nigerians,” Mr Benjamin said.
He pointed out that SWAN’s choice to appoint Mrs Omidiran as its first National Matron acknowledges her contributions to sports development, public service, and national unity.
Mrs Omidiran will be formally recognized at SWAN’s National Triennial Congress in August. Delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory will elect new national officers and discuss the future of sports journalism in Nigeria.
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