Buhari save nigerian sports from crises
A timely topic!
President Muhammadu Buhari has indeed taken steps to address the challenges facing Nigerian sports, which have been plagued by crises, corruption, and underdevelopment for years. Here are some of the key initiatives he has undertaken:
- Establishment of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development: In 2015, Buhari created a separate ministry for youth and sports development, which was previously merged with the Ministry of Education. This move was aimed at giving sports the attention and resources it deserves.
- Appointment of a new Minister: In 2017, Buhari appointed Solomon Dalung as the Minister of Youth and Sports Development. Dalung, a former athlete and sports administrator, brought a wealth of experience to the role and was tasked with revamping the sports sector.
- Reforms in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF): In 2018, Buhari intervened in the crisis-ridden NFF, appointing a caretaker committee to manage the organization. This move was aimed at restoring stability and transparency to Nigerian football.
- Establishment of the National Sports Commission (NSC): In 2019, Buhari established the NSC, which is responsible for overseeing the development of sports in Nigeria. The commission is tasked with implementing policies and programs to promote sports development, talent identification, and youth engagement.
- Investment in infrastructure: Buhari has invested in the construction of new sports facilities, including the National Stadium in Abuja, which was renovated and reopened in 2018. The government has also invested in the development of other sports infrastructure, such as the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
- Support for Nigerian athletes: Buhari has provided financial support to Nigerian athletes participating in international competitions, including the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. This support has helped to boost the morale and performance of Nigerian athletes.
- Anti-doping efforts: Buhari has shown commitment to the fight against doping in Nigerian sports, signing the Anti-Doping Bill into law in 2019. The bill establishes the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) and provides for the testing and punishment of athletes found guilty of doping.
- Promotion of grassroots sports: Buhari has emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development, recognizing that this is the foundation of successful sports programs. He has encouraged the development of sports at the grassroots level, particularly in schools and communities.
While there is still much work to be done to address the challenges facing Nigerian sports, President Buhari's initiatives have helped to stabilize the sector and provide a platform for growth and development.