A review of the policy documents of the major candidates in Saturday’s presidential election appears to have one thing in common: a definite lack of understanding of sports as a significant economic index.
The UNDP, in a 2012 paper, stated that “Engaging youth in the community development initiatives is a promising way of providing them opportunities in meaningful ways. They can be very valuable resources to help close the gaps by lending support to developmentally appropriate activities and challenges. Their involvement also strengthens student-centred learning.”
While sports in Nigeria may read football, Nigeria is blessed with talents in many other sports. But sports and athletes’ development are dysfunctional topics that are not adequately catered for in the manifestos of the candidates.
