Govt reiterates interest in private sector driven sports industry

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a private sector drive sports sector, which it said is a key strategy for building a sustainable sports economy in Nigeria.

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, emphasised this vision during the 2024 Isimi Lagos Festival, held at the Isimi Lagos Wellness and Polo Country Estate.
Olopade reiterated the immense potential of private sector partnerships to revolutionise sports infrastructure, funding, and talent development nationwide.

He said: “We are leveraging opportunities to bring the corporate and private sectors to the forefront of sports development. With the right incentives, the private sector can be a major driver of growth in sports, and this is part of the key focus of the new leadership of the NSC.”
After witnessing the Kings Cup Polo championship at the event, Olapade underscored the importance of supporting diverse sports like polo in Nigeria.

He added: “It’s pertinent to encourage and support other sports like polo in the country. That is why I am also here in Lagos to back this tournament at the newly built resort and as well support private-sector driven initiatives, which we crave in our sector.”

Olapade commended Isimi Lagos as a remarkable edifice with the potential to attract tourists to the country, just as he emphasised its significance as a budding sports tourism destination.
“We must tell our stories and position ourselves as a hub for sports tourism, an area that needs more support to harness its value in Nigeria,” he added.

The festival attracted notable dignitaries, including the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, among others.

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