Sports administrators and coaches in Ogun state want government at all levels to encourage private sector participation in the development of sports in the country through development-friendly policies.
The administrators and coaches made the call at a roundtable discussion organized by All Stars Football Club, Abeokuta, to commemorate the 60th years of Nigeria’s Independence and find a way forward for football development in the country.
CAF Champions League Winning Coach, Kadiri Ikhana who highlighted the gains of the country had recorded in the 70s and 80s said unless government hands off the running of football in the country, the round leather game would continue to witness decline in Nigeria.
Speaking in the same vein, former Chairman, Ogun State House Assembly Committee on Youth and Sports, Mr Olufemi Allen-Taylor stressed the need for government to desist from using sports especially football as a political tool rather than an avenue to revamp the economy.
Former General Manager of Gateway United Football Club, Tony Rafua identified the lack of a viable football culture, robust sponsorship deal, job security and motivation as some of the factors affecting the game of football in the country.
Also, former Nigerian player, Kola Taiwo said appointment of qualified and committed managers would go a long way to change the fortunes of football in the country.
In a remark, the President, All Stars Football Club, Abeokuta, Alhaji Waheed Lawal, explained that the programme was organised to allow stakeholders in the administration of sports in the country find a lasting solution to challenges responsible for the decline of football in the country.
Alhaji Lawal emphasised the need for Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to provide a 50 million naira grant to each of the football clubs in Nigeria, and monitor the investment to ensure return on it.
Olusegun Folarin
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