- advocates for the introduction of grants and scholarships specifically for sports, along with the provision of adequate sporting facilities and playgrounds at each educational level
Following the recent criticism of Nigeria’s performance at the just-concluded Olympic Games by Hon. Gbandi, the longest-serving European diaspora leader, former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Ekpo Nta has weighed in on the issue, offering a constructive perspective on the nation’s sports development. While acknowledging the concerns raised, Nta clarified that the responsibility for the current state of Nigerian sports should not solely be placed on the present government but on general wrong sports policies over the years. Instead, he advocates for a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to reviving sports in the country.
Nta, drawing from his wealth of experience and understanding of structural issues, outlined several key strategies that he believes could rejuvenate sports in Nigeria, creating a sustainable and competitive sports culture. His recommendations are as follows:
1. Incorporation of Competitive Sports into Education**
Nta emphasized the importance of embedding competitive sports into the educational system, beginning from primary schools to tertiary institutions. He advocates for the introduction of grants and scholarships specifically for sports, along with the provision of adequate sporting facilities and playgrounds at each educational level. According to him, this would not only promote physical education but also serve as a talent identification pipeline that can be nurtured over time.
2. Reward-Based Inter-Community Competitions**
One of Nta’s major proposals is the introduction of reward-based inter-community competitions that would extend to the Local Government Area (LGA) level. He suggested replicating these competitions across Nigeria’s 774 LGAs to harvest first-tier sporting talent. Drawing inspiration from the English football leagues, which thrive on community rivalries (e.g., Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal), Nta believes that similar grassroots competitions in Nigeria could foster a culture of self-sustaining sports leagues.
3. Urban Planning and Recreational Spaces**
Nta expressed concern over the current trends in urban planning in Nigeria, which often sacrifice spacious recreational and competitive playgrounds in favor of housing developments. He argued that these spaces are essential for nurturing various sporting activities within neighborhoods. He calls for a revision of urban planning policies to ensure that new estates include adequate facilities for sports, which are crucial for community engagement and the physical well-being of residents.
4. Promotion of Local Sports Equipment Production**
To reduce dependency on imported sports equipment, Nta advocates for the encouragement of local production of sports gear that meets international standards. By promoting local manufacturing of items such as jerseys, bicycles, boots, and other sports essentials, Nigeria can not only save foreign exchange but also boost its economy and create jobs.
5. Development of Specialization in Sports Medicine**
Nta highlighted the importance of developing and funding specialization in sports medicine, particularly in areas like Physiotherapy, Nutrition, and Dietetics. This, he argues, is critical for the professional care and development of athletes, ensuring they receive the best possible support in their careers, from injury prevention to recovery.
6. Free Access to Underutilized Stadiums**
Lastly, Nta recommended granting free access to stadiums, which are currently underutilized, to citizens in surrounding neighborhoods. By doing so, these facilities can be better integrated into the community, providing spaces for regular sporting activities, which could help to develop local talents and promote healthy living.
Conclusion
Ekpo Una Owo Nta’s proposals offer a broad blueprint for reviving sports in Nigeria. His emphasis on grassroots development, coupled with strategic investments in infrastructure, local production, and specialized training, reflects a deep understanding of the structural challenges facing Nigerian sports. Nta urges a collective effort to go back to the drawing board and implement a multifaceted approach that will not only address the immediate concerns but also lay a foundation for long-term success.
As the nation reflects on its Olympic performance and the state of sports in general, these recommendations could catalyze the necessary reforms to restore Nigeria’s sporting glory on the global stage.
AH
