Nigeria’s Flagship Sports University Stalled 4 Years Post-Establishment

A proposed Federal University of Sports in Nkalagu, Ebonyi State, remains in a state of indefinite suspension, four years after its legal establishment. This concerning delay has been highlighted by Prince Harrison Jalla, Chairman of the Advocacy for Nigeria Football Reform Concept.

Mr Jalla, in statement made available to LEADERSHIP Sports recently, expressed dismay that the Federal Government has yet to initiate practical steps for the university’s commencement, despite the “Federal University of Sports, Nkalagu Establishment Act, 2023” being enshrined in law.

He noted that while President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited the project, crucial appointments of a management team and principal officers, essential for driving the university forward, are conspicuously absent.

Conversely, the Ebonyi State Government, under Governor Francis Nwifuru, has demonstrated its commitment by promptly providing the necessary land for the institution.

“The project remains in limbo despite the state government promptly making the needed land available,” Mr Jalla stated.

The university’s formal creation occurred on 26th May 2023, when former President Muhammadu Buhari signed the establishment bill into law.

Further presidential endorsement for the university’s commencement was communicated in a letter dated 23rd July 2024, from the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. This correspondence, referenced SH/COS/02/1/A/1405, informed the Ministers of Education and Sports, alongside the Ebonyi State governor, of the President’s authorisation for the institution’s take-off and the appointment of a governing council.

Despite these approvals, Mr Jalla voiced profound concern over the lack of discernible progress. He has urged President Tinubu to expedite the implementation of this decision, emphasising the university’s potential to offer invaluable opportunities for thousands of young Nigerians aspiring to careers in sports.

Activating this institution, he believes, would be a pivotal step in bolstering sports development and forging new professional pathways for the nation’s youth.