Prominent sports stakeholder Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has made a compelling case for placing technocrats rather than political appointees at the leadership helm of Nigeria's sports sector. This urgent call comes amid growing concerns about the nation's declining performance in international sports competitions.
The Case for Professional Leadership in Sports
Speaking during the inaugural Big Sports Dialogue 0.1 event held on Monday, November 24, at Villa Doom in Ikoyi, Lagos, Atoyebi emphasized that meaningful reform in Nigeria's sports industry can only occur when professionals with industry expertise are appointed to leadership positions. She stressed that technocrats possess the capability to develop realistic blueprints, implement them effectively, and maintain accountability throughout the process.
"Other countries have advanced by investing in infrastructure that supports athlete development. Nigeria must do the same to remain competitive internationally," Atoyebi stated during her presentation at the dialogue session.
Infrastructure Crisis in Nigerian Sports
The sports executive highlighted the deplorable state of sports infrastructure as a major barrier preventing Nigeria from achieving its potential in global sports. She noted that transformation remains impossible without modern, well-maintained facilities that can support athlete development and international competitions.
Atoyebi pointed to the contrast between Nigeria's sports infrastructure and that of other nations that have consistently produced world-class athletes. She maintained that infrastructure investment represents a fundamental requirement for any meaningful progress in the sector.
Addressing the Neglect of Women's Sports
Another critical issue raised during the dialogue was the persistent neglect of women's sports in Nigeria. Atoyebi expressed particular disappointment that despite female athletes consistently winning more international honors than their male counterparts, they receive significantly less institutional support and visibility.
"Our female athletes have consistently delivered results on the global stage. It is high time their achievements translate into tangible support," she emphasized, calling for stronger institutional backing and greater media exposure for women in sports.
The sports stakeholder advocated for policy changes that would ensure equitable resource allocation and promotional opportunities for female athletes across all sports disciplines.
Optimism for Future Progress
Despite the current challenges, Atoyebi expressed optimism about potential reforms in Nigeria's sports administration. She praised the organizers of the Big Sports Dialogue for creating a platform for candid discussions and expressed hope that the next edition would demonstrate measurable progress in implementing the recommendations discussed.
"I am optimistic that by the next session, we will begin to see tangible signs that many of these proposals are being implemented," Atoyebi stated, reflecting the sentiment of many stakeholders awaiting meaningful change in Nigeria's sports sector.
The call for technocratic leadership comes at a crucial time when Nigeria seeks to reclaim its position as a dominant force in African and global sports. The emphasis on professional expertise, infrastructure development, and gender equity in sports represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the sector's longstanding challenges.
