Former Works and Housing Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola says Nigeria’s sports industry can create millions of jobs and help grow the economy.
Speaking at the launch of veteran journalist Dr. Mumini Alao’s autobiography, Fashola said sports around the world now generate huge income and drive development — with countries like the UK and Saudi Arabia showing how it can be done.
He noted that Nigeria has not tapped into this potential due to poor infrastructure, weak governance, and not treating sports as a serious business.
Fashola called for more investment in stadiums and training facilities, better training for officials and coaches, and making sports a professional career. He stressed the need for strong rules, safety at events, and zero tolerance for violence, cheating, or drug use.
According to him, the goal should be to discover the best talent, protect it from bad influences, and help athletes reach their full potential.
Many hope his comments will inspire a new push to make sports a major part of Nigeria’s economic growth.