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Sports ministry plans nurturing youth talent, ensuring proper funding

By Daily Sports Nigeria on September 25, 2023

Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh says the ministry has outlined a comprehensive vision for sports development in the country through grassroots development and strategic funding allocation.

The Minister made the disclosure

during a press briefing at the National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta state.

"The goals will reflects a dedication to harnessing youth talent and taking sports to new heights.

"It’s essential to recognize the immense influence that sports holds. In Nigeria, sports remains a potent and vital tool.

"I firmly believe that many of our nation’s challenges can find solutions through the advancement and promotion of sports, particularly among our youth," he said.

Enoh said that one key strategy is to invest in grassroots sports development programs, which are specifically designed to expose young boys and girls to various sports.

"This initiative aims to cultivate talent at a local level, laying the foundation for future success. I believe that there could not be a more fitting platform than such events to showcase the potential of our young athletes.

"By harnessing the power of sports, we can not only nurture talent but also address some of Nigeria’s pressing issues. It is our duty to continue developing and expanding these opportunities for our nation’s youth," he said.

The minister said that the essence of sports development lies in its roots, and the ministry recognizes this fundamental truth.

While emphasizing on the importance of nurturing talent from an early age, Enoh stressed that the NYG play a pivotal role in identifying and honing young athletes who can potentially represent the nation on a larger stage.

“The NYG, with their mission of discovering and promoting talent, have become a key component of the country’s sports ecosystem," he said.

Enoh noted that these games are not just a routine event but a crucial platform for identifying and nurturing the next generation of sporting champions.

“The goal is clear: to provide young boys and girls with opportunities and facilities to excel in sports, regardless of their geographical location. The challenge lies in ensuring that every state, including those in remote areas, has access to sports infrastructure and facilities.

"This inclusivity is not just about participation but also about tapping into the latent talent hidden in every corner of the country.

“Proper funding is the lifeblood of sports development, and the ministry is committed to ensuring that it flows to where it is needed most. A key component of this strategy is allocating resources based on the specific requirements of each sports federation.

“The ministry aims to provide a comprehensive framework that includes training, local competitions, regional events, and international participation.

"By planning and funding these aspects in advance, the aim is to eliminate the financial barriers that often hinder athletes’ progress," he added.

Enoh said the ministry was exploring ways to leverage the National Identification Number (NIN) to streamline athlete screening processes.

"This move is expected to bring transparency and fairness to athlete selection, ensuring that deserving individuals get the opportunities they deserve.

“The ministry’s vision for sports development resonates with the broader goals of the country’s leadership. It aims to create an environment where young talents are nurtured, facilities are accessible, and funding is strategically allocated," he said.

The Minister envisioned a future where the NYG become a symbol of hope and opportunity for young athletes nationwide.

"By embracing grassroots sports development and ensuring proper funding, the ministry aims to pave the way for a new era of sporting excellence in the country.

"This comprehensive approach reflects the commitment to fostering talent and achieving greater heights in the world of sports," he added.

Source Daily Sports Nigeria

Posted September 25, 2023