The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed its commitment to fostering sports development through partnerships with the private sector.
This initiative aims to leverage private investment and expertise to enhance sports infrastructure, promote grassroots programs, and develop elite athletes.
By collaborating with businesses, the NSC hopes to create a sustainable model for sports growth that benefits communities, enhances national pride, and boosts the overall economy.
The director-general of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized this vision during the 2024 Isimi Lagos Festival held at the Isimi Lagos Wellness and Polo Country Estate on Saturday.
Olopade, in a statement signed by his SA on media, Kola Daniel, reiterated the immense potential of private sector partnerships to revolutionize sports infrastructure, funding and talent development across the country.
We are leveraging on opportunities to bring the corporate and private sectors to the forefront of sports development.
“With the right incentives, the private sector can be a major driver of growth in sports, and this is part of the key focus of the new leadership of the NSC,” he remarked.
Witnessing the Kings Cup Polo championship at the event, the DG underscored the importance of supporting diverse sports like polo in Nigeria.
“It’s pertinent to encourage and support other sports like polo in the country. That is why I am also here in Lagos to back this tournament at the newly built resort and as well support private-sector driven initiatives, which we crave in our sector” he said.
The NSC’s vow signals a positive shift towards a more inclusive and collaborative sports ecosystem, emphasizing that the private sector plays a crucial role in building a robust sports culture.
Olopade lauded Isimi Lagos as a remarkable edifice with the potential to attract tourists both nationally and internationally, emphasizing its significance as a budding sports tourism destination.
“We must tell our stories and position ourselves as a hub for sports tourism, an area that needs more support to harness its value in Nigeria,” he added.
