Three tiers of government have been advised to prioritise sports development as part of efforts to reduce youth unemployment in the country.
A sports journalist, Mr. Adamu Marshal, gave the advice while reacting to the challenges facing the sports sector, which has brought honour and global recognition to Nigeria over the years, particularly through football.
Mr. Marshal expressed optimism that government at all levels would invest in talent discovery and youth development programmes, to nurture future champions and secure more laurels for the nation, considering Nigerians’ passion for sports.
He also suggested continued sensitization of stakeholders by the sports writers association of Nigeria to move the sector forward and improve its international rankling while calling on FIFA and similar organisations to support the country in its efforts to reclaim past glory.
Mr. Adamu Marshal stressed the need for leadership of sports associations to avoid acts that may tarnish the nation’s image built over the years and wished them good luck to justify huge public expenditure.
SULEIMAN KAURA