Sports Stakeholders Set For Launch Of Landmark Book On Nigeria’s Sporting Future

Abuja will host some of Nigeria’s most influential sports administrators, policymakers and investors on Thursday, 18 June 2026, as stakeholders gather for the unveiling of a new book examining the future of sports development in the country.

Titled “Perspectives on Sports Development in Nigeria: Challenges and Ways Forward,” the book is authored by renowned sports administrator and psychologist, Dr Emmanuel Edem Ikpeme.

The launch ceremony will take place at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, beginning at noon.

Leading sports entrepreneur and investor Kunle Soname, Founder and Chairman of ValueJet Airlines and Bet9ja, will serve as the Chief Launcher for the event.

Dr Ikpeme is widely respected within Nigerian football circles, having served for several years as Deputy General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and as sports psychologist to the Super Eagles. His contributions have been linked to some of the national team’s recent successes, including a silver-medal finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and a third-place finish at the 2026 tournament.

The event will be chaired by Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry and former Minister of Sports Development, underscoring the significance of the publication to Nigeria’s sports policy framework.

A strong delegation from the National Sports Commission is expected, led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade. Members of the NFF Executive Committee and senior football administrators are also expected to attend.

The launch has equally attracted interest from political leaders across the country. Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, are expected to lead a delegation from the author’s home state.

Other prominent personalities expected at the event include Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Observers believe the book could stimulate important conversations around sports administration, funding, infrastructure development, talent identification and athlete welfare in Nigeria.

With many of the country’s leading sports decision-makers expected under one roof, the launch is anticipated to provide a valuable platform for charting a new course for sustainable sports development.