Maiden edition of the National Council on Sports(first Council meeting as federal ministry of sports development) has opened in Enugu with a call on sports stakeholders to come up with policies that are inclusive, such that create equal opportunities for all for sports development.
The stakeholders were also urged to engage in open , constructive and forward- thinking discussions and leverage their collective expertise to address the challenges facing the sports sector and explore innovative solutions that will propel them to greater heights.
Deputy Governor of Enugu state, Ifeanyi Ossai made the call on Monday, May 20, in his address presented at the opening of a 3-Day meeting holding at the old Government lodge,G.R.A, Enugu.
Pix- Commissioner for Youths and Sports,Lyold Ekweremadu
Represented by the Enugu state Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Lyold Ekweremadu, Ossai drew the attention of the council to key areas such as infrastructure development , athletes’ welfare, funding mechanism, coaching standards and grassroot sports programs, which he said, require their utmost attention and concerted efforts.
Pix- From L-R :Correspondents Chapel , ,NUJ Enugu chairman, Law Njoku, and members, Okechukwu, Damian and Chukwumerije Ajah
He tasked the Council on inclusiveness saying , “We must ensure that our policies are inclusive, providing equal opportunities for all , regardless of gender, background, or ability. Let us strive to create an environment where every young person can dream, excel and achieve greatness through sports,”he said.
Pix- Perm. Sec. Federal ministry of Sports,Mrs Tinuke Watti
The Deputy Governor expressed the confidence that with the wealth of knowledge, experience and passion , the council members can tackle the challenges ahead and forge a path that elevates Nigerian sports to new heights
Going down the memory lane, Ossai said, ” Enugu state has a rich history of fostering talent and promoting sportsmanship. Our state has produced notable athletes who have brought pride to Nigeria on international stages. It is for this reason that we understand the transformative power of sports. It is not just a tool for physical fitness and entertainment power of sports .
Pix- Secretary -Generals and other Council stakeholders
Sports have always played a pivotal role in the unity and development of our nation. It serves as a catalyst for social cohesion , economic development and youth empowerment.
“Hosting this National Council on Sports meeting is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the development of sports at all levels. It is our belief that through strategic investment community engagement and robust policy frameworks, we can nurture the next generation of Nigerian sports stars,”Ossai said.
Pix- Veteran Sports writer and PRO Nigeria Olympic Committee,Tony Nezianya
To the participants he said,’ Your discussions , decisions and collaborations in this forum will lay the ground work for transformative policies and innovative programs that will impact our youth, our communities and our nation’s standing in the global sports arena.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary ,Federal ministry of Sports Development, Mrs Tinuke Watti said the Theme of this year’s meeting , “Sports for National Unity and Socio- Economic Growth” , was apt, She noted that sports transcend the barriers of language, ethnicity and religion, uniting the people under tbe common banner of competition, achievement amd collective pride. From every corner of our country ,from the cities to the towns and villages, sports bring us together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Pix- From L-R – Chairman Correspondents Chapel,NUJ,Enugu, Law Njoku and chapel members, Damian(Middle) and ,Chimereije(Right)
“Through sports, we learn the values of teamwork, respect and perseverance.
She observed that national unity is a critical goal for any nation, especially one as Nigeria, noting that” in a world that often emphasized our diversity and find strength in our unity Through sports, we learn the values that build strong communities and a resilient nation.”
Watti emphasized that sports have significant potential for Socio- economic growth. “Sports are not just games , they are a major industry with the capacity to generate employment, drive economic development and improve public health. Investments in sports infrastructure and programmes can help boost the economy of our nation.
“Pix- Participants
“Sports, when rightly positioned, will help to take the youth off crime as successful athletes serve as role models, inspiring younger generations to aspire to greatness and engage in productive activities.” she said.
The Permanent secretary opined that to harness these benefits , it is imperative that a holistic and inclusive approach to sport development should be adopted “This includes fostering partnerships between the government , private sector, and international bodies. It means ensuring that our policies are geared towards inclusivity, providing opportunities for all regardless of gender, age, or socio-economic background. It also involves leveraging technology and innovation to enhance training, performance and fan engagement,” she said
Pix- Sports stakeholders
Watti expressed the hope that the Council will come up with “policies that would serve as guide for better and improved decisions in the sports sector in Nigeria and work out tbe strategies to achieve deliverables as set out for the sector in presidential priorities
She thanked Enugu state Governor,Dr. Peter Mbah, the Local Organizing Committee and all those who supported the organization of the conference.
Pix- Tony Nezianya, PRO, NOC,
A participant and the Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Tony Nezianya, said they hold the Council on Sports meeting annually to articulate national policies in relation to sports development. He said the 2024 meeting was the first meeting of the council since the federal ministry of sports development became a stand alone ministry
According to him, the council discuss issues on how sports could be used in national development. The council on sports comprises, National Council on youth Sports development, national sports council of various states, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Nigeria Football federation, Women in Sports, Nigeria schools sports federation, ministry of education, and other affiliate groups in sports development .
.The conference which started on Monday, May 20 will end on Wednesday,May 22nd.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama