From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described sports as a major economic force and a powerful tool for unity and national integration in Nigeria.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday, Akpabio said the value and role of sports have evolved far beyond leisure.
He cited the construction of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium during his time as Governor of Akwa Ibom State as proof of his long-standing belief in the power of sports.
“My faith in sports is not mere rhetoric; it is a matter of record,” he said. “That stadium was not just concrete and steel—it was a statement of belief in what sports can do for a people and a nation.”
“Sports is no longer a pastime; it is an economic force, an instrument of unity and national integration.
“As of 2023, the global sports industry was valued at approximately $484.9 billion and is projected to reach $507.69 billion by 2025. It now accounts for about 2% of the world’s GDP.”
He noted, however, that in Africa, the sector contributes only 0.5% to GDP, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth. Akpabio called on governments, educational institutions, private investors, and corporate organisations to invest more in sports infrastructure and programmes.
“It is a call to action to recognise sports not as leisure, but as leverage for national development,” he said.
The Senate President praised the athletes and organisers of the festival, describing the event as a celebration of “strength, spirit, and the sublime beauty of competition.”
He commended the Ministry of Sports, led by Sen. John Owan Enoh, for hosting what he described as a “vibrant and flawless” event, and also lauded the Ogun State Government for providing a secure and welcoming environment for the competition.
Akpabio urged authorities at all levels to integrate sports into the education system, with proper facilities and structured programs. He also encouraged the private sector to invest in sports as strategic partners rather than as donors.
Addressing the athletes, he emphasised the importance of perseverance and the power of opportunity, citing the story of football legend Lionel Messi as an example of how belief and support can transform raw talent into global success.
“Talent is universal, but opportunity is not. We must create the opportunities for our talents. No Messi should be allowed to wallow and die in insignificance,” he said.
Akpabio concluded by urging all stakeholders to play their part in developing Nigeria’s sporting potential and officially declared the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival closed.
“Somewhere out there is Nigeria’s own Messi, waiting to be discovered,” he said. “To the champions—congratulations. To the hopeful—keep training. To Nigeria—your greatness is only beginning.”