Professional sports a catalyst for economic growth – Adaikpoh

Former Dean, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Godwin Adaikpoh, has said that Professional sports development is a catalyst and a force for the economic growth of a nation.

He also declared that professional sports can generate employment, create global recognition, and foster a sense of national unity, especially during economically challenging times.

Prof. Adaikpoh disclosed these while delivering a keynote address at the 25th Annual State conference and workshop of the Nigeria Association for Physical and Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance (NAPHER-SD), held in Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.

Prof. Adaikpoh said beyond athletics, professional sports are substantial tools that drive tourism, media, and merchandising industries, which no doubt serve as a bridge between economic growth and social resilience.

For him, grassroots sports are essential for community engagement and talent identification, which of course, provide accessible sports Programmes, to cultivate resilience from the ground up, promoting health, teamwork, and discipline in children and youths.

“Grassroots sports development also creates local economic activity, just as Investing in grassroots sports is a proven strategy for economic stimulation and social resilience,” he said.

The State chairman, NAPHER-SD, Godspower Odedede, decried the sorry state of sports at the grassroots in Delta State despite her outstanding dominance of Sports in Nigeria over the years.

He said schools and community sports have taken backstage in the State, noting that the development has constituted a big problem in achieving the needed solid foundation for fitness, sports excellence, and other associated benefits by the