A lecturer at the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Dr. Sunday Odior, has blamed leadership disputes in Nigeria’s sports federations for undermining athlete development and threatening the country’s participation in major international competitions.
Odior, the acting head of the institute’s Sports Management Studies Department, said prolonged disagreements over federation elections and leadership had diverted attention from athletes and sports development.
He cited disputes in athletics, basketball and other federations, noting that some had dragged on for years as officials fought over leadership positions.
According to him, Nigeria needs people with the right knowledge and experience to manage its sports federations rather than individuals appointed mainly because of their wealth or influence.
“If you don’t really know the course, you will just be at the surface level.
"You will spend money but no results,” he said.
Odior called for greater involvement of former athletes and other experienced professionals in the administration and development of their respective sports.
Despite the challenges, he said Nigeria’s sports sector was undergoing reforms, including efforts by the NIS to improve its curriculum and align its training with international standards.
He said the institute was also exploring partnerships with international sports bodies, including FIFA, CAF and international basketball and athletics organisations, to improve coaching and athlete training.
Odior described sports as an important tool for national development, noting its ability to unite Nigerians and its growing economic value.
He also cited government efforts to clear outstanding payments to athletes and coaches, as well as investment in sporting facilities, as indications of the sector’s importance to national development.
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