Sports
FG tells Sports Federations to evolve programs that will attract private investors
The Federal Government has challenged the National Sports Federations to think out of the box and evolve programs and initiatives that will attract private sector investors in the development of sports in the country
The Minister of Sports Development Senator John Owan Enoh gave the charge in his office at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja during the joint meeting with the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and Presidents of National Sports Federations.
A statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations Muhammad Manga quoted the minister to have stated that sports has now moved from mere recreation to a business.
According to him, it behoves on the leadership of all the federations to now begin to explore ways to attract private sector investors both international and local so as to help effectively drive their sports and not exclusively depending on government for funding, this he said, is the practice the world over.
Senator Enoh stated further that there are many private sector organisations that are willing to invest in sports in Nigeria but that the federations need to step up rewarding activities that will attract them. He pointed out that government can no longer fund the sector alone and that is why the present administration in its wisdom, recently endorsed the National Sports Industry Policy (NSIP) approved by the immediate past administration in the renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration to provide opportunities for the private sector participation in the development of sports in Nigeria.
The Minister indicated that the policy outlines some incentives that can attract private sector investors such as tax exemption and rebate for a period of 5 years for investors in the value chain of sports; land provision and waiver for certain fees on lands meant for sports.
Others he said included, single digit loan interest rates for corporate organisations and private individuals investing in the sports value chain as well as independent Government Grant through the establishment of an Independent Athletes Welfare Fund (AWF) from which athletes representing the country can draw support for education and trainings amongst others.
Senator Enoh explained that government is not shying away from its responsibility of funding the Federations but that it is determined to open up the sector to allow for private sector participation in order to provide opportunities for job creation, poverty alleviation as well as enhance the unity of the nation.
While reminding them of the role of sports in the promotion of social cohesion, unity, peace and understanding between the diversed ethnic groups, religions and culture across the country, the Minister assured that the Ministry of Sports Development under his watch is working towards acquiring appropriations to support the federations for the effective discharge of their duties in line with the policy thrust of the government.
He therefore called on them to step up important and relevant programs that will woo the corporate and private organisations to join hands and compliment the efforts of the Federal Government in the development of sports in line with global best practices.
He expressed optimism that if the steps are well taken by the federations, Nigeria will witness rapid transformation in the sector.
“I believe that we have enough private sector people who have shown interest in sports. We have enough private sector companies that are willing to invest in sports. Even at the international arena, we have such companies waiting to invest in Nigeria sports. What needs to be done to get these resources will be defined by the content of the program that we have as presidents of various Federations in Nigeria.
“For example, what kind of scheduled engagement of activities have you put in place that can attract investment in your federation. Let me assure you that my
office is open and willing to take suggestions on what needs to be done and collaborate with different Federations so as to ensure the development of sports in Nigeria.
“Sports is business. So, we need to see how much business we can make out of it. Different private sector organisations, if they find out that, if you put X,Y and Z, they can get A,B and C, they will come and invest.
“Therefore, while we are looking up to the government, let us also task ourselves in this regard.” Enoh concluded.
Speaking ealier on behalf of the federations, the President, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Engr Habu Ahmed Gumel commended the Honourable Minister of Sports Development Senator John Owan Enoh for the crucial meeting with the key stakeholders in the industry and also on keeping his doors open to their requests even though he had recently met with the Presidents of the National Sports Federations
While congratulating the Honourable Minister on his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and subsequent confirmation by the National Assembly, as the Captain of Nigerian sports, Engr Gumel informed that their request to meet with the Minister was to enabled them jointly brainstorm and look at some of the critical and imminent issues facing the Federations with a view to finding solutions for them.
He enumerated the issues to include among others, the forthcoming multi-sports Games – the Winter Youth Olympic Games, scheduled to take place from 19th January to 1st February, 2024, the 13th African Games that will be holding in Accra, Ghana from 8th to 23rd March, 2024 and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, which will take place from 26th July to 11th August, 2024.
The NOC President indicated that the National Federations are the pivots upon which the National Sports System stands.
“They represent the basic constituencies for the discovery, nurturing and showcasing of our sporting talents to the elite levels. This is because only one National Federation can be recognized by the International Federation or African Confederation as the governing body in charge of the respective sports in their countries, “he said.
Engr Gumel, who observed the need for the meeting to take it as a collective responsibility to ensure proper funding of our National Federations at all times, called on the bodies to collaborate with the Federal Government and reciprocate by exhibiting high levels of responsibility and integrity in their administration.
“That, I believe, is a clear way of setting our sport on the right pedestal of sustainable development.
He pledged that they will all work hard to support the minister in the drive in the collective task of nation building through sports.
Sports
CAF Champions League: Okpebholo backs Edo Queens for Semifinal Spot
As Edo Queens prepare for a crucial face-off with South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the ongoing 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, Governor Monday Okpebholo has issued a heartfelt message of support, rallying the team to victory.
The match, set for Saturday, November 16 in Casablanca, Morocco, will determine whether the Queens advance to the semifinals.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua in a statement quoted Okpebholo to have praised the Queens’ achievements, acknowledging the determination and hard work that has kept them at the top of Group B.
He assured the team of his administration’s unwavering backing. “I want our girls to know that we are fully behind them,” the governor stated.
“They have nothing to worry about — their state and nation stand solidly with them. We want them to defeat Sundowns on Saturday and make Edo State and Nigeria proud.”
Okpebholo also expressed confidence that the Queens could go on to win the tournament, promising that his administration will prioritize sports development across Edo State.
“Go ahead and win the cup and bring it to your fatherland. Sports will surely receive the attention it deserves under my government,” he affirmed.
Edo Queens, champions of the Nigeria Women Premier League, began their CAF campaign with a resounding 3-0 victory over Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank, with goals from Emem Essien, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Goodness Osigwe.
A goalless draw with Egypt’s Masar FC kept them at the top of Group B, positioning them for a semifinal berth if they secure a win or draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The much-anticipated showdown is scheduled to kick off at 6 pm local time on Saturday.
Sports
At National Transporters Games Mascot Unveiling, speakers highlight transporters contribution to economy
**Say games aim to transform negative perception of Transport Sector
As the maiden National Transporters’ Games billed for December 2024 draws closer, the unveiling of the Mascot for the games which took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium on Thursday evening highlighted the event’s goal of fostering national unity among stakeholders in Nigeria’s transport sector.
Scheduled to be hosted in Ogun State, the games are designed to encourage collaboration and camaraderie among participants.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by key officials and industry representatives, showcased a mascot symbolizing strength and teamwork.
Senator Prince Gbolahan Dada, a prominent advocate for the event, emphasized that the competition, themed ‘Unity in Motion, Strength in Diversity,’ aims not only to promote national cohesion but also to enhance the economic viability of the transport system.
He emphasized the crucial role of transporters in Nigeria’s economy highlighting the need to challenge negative perceptions associated with transport workers.
Dada stressed that transporters are essential contributors to economic stability, pointing out that a one-day strike by transport unions could lead to widespread disruption.
He called for a repositioning of transporters as vital partners in driving economic growth.
He said the games marked a significant collaboration between the private sector and government, noting the importance of using sports as a unifying force within communities.
He recalled the legacy of Rashidi Yekini, a former transporter and national football hero, to illustrate the untapped potential within the sector.
With Nigeria’s vast population, the senator urged for a focus on nurturing local talents and creating opportunities for business growth through improved partnerships in sports and transportation.
He reiterated the importance of enhancing transport networks and ensuring the well-being of drivers, advocating for safe resting places and greater collaboration with law enforcement.
Senator Dada’s address is a call to action to honor and support transporters, reinforcing their pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
National Coordinator of the National Transporters games, Wale Shodeinde outlined the event’s structure, revealing that athletes from eight transport organizations will compete in six sports: football, draughts, athletics, table tennis, swimming, and Ayo.
Shodeinde explained that the decision to unveil the mascot in the northern part of the country, while holding competitions in the south, underscored the event’s commitment to national unity. He assured attendees that the next edition will be hosted in the north.
He said the games are targeted at reshaping the narrative around transport workers in Nigeria. “This groundbreaking event, set for December, is poised to be the first of its kind in Nigeria and potentially in Africa.
Shodeinde expressed gratitude for the federal government’s support in organizing the event, which wl bring together 12 national transport unions across the country.
He highlighted the importance of fostering unity among transport workers, emphasizing that sports can serve as a powerful unifying force.
“The games will feature various competitions and will be hosted in different regions”
Shodeinde affirmed that the initiative is not just about sports but also about enhancing the image of transporters, who have often faced negative perceptions.
He acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including the National Association of Road Transport Owners and the National Union of Road Transport Workers, in making this event a reality.
The event aimed to promote national cohesion and celebrate the contributions of transport workers to the economy.
The unveiling of the mascot marks a significant step towards the upcoming games, which are expected to showcase the talent and dedication of transport workers while promoting unity across the sector.
Shodeinde concluded by urging the media to help convey the importance of the National Transporters Games, asserting that this initiative is here to stay and will play a vital role in transforming the narrative surrounding the transport sector in Nigeria.
Also in attendance, Honourable Solomon Bamola, Chairman of Miss Football Nigeria, highlighted the significant economic implications of the games, noting the opportunity to reshape public perceptions of transport workers.
The National Transporters’ Games are set to serve as a pivotal platform for enhancing unity and collaboration within Nigeria’s transport sector, promising a bright future for its participants and the industry at large.
Sports
T2Bet Unveils Innovative Online Betting Platform to Engage Users, Boost Earnings
In a groundbreaking move for the online betting industry, T2bet has launched a new segment of its platform, allowing users to engage in a diverse range of betting options across 4,000 games daily.
This innovative offering, presented by CEO Theo Ubani, is aimed to enhance user experience by combining gaming and potential earnings in a fun and secure environment.
During a recent press briefing in Abuja, Ubani emphasized the platform’s commitment to redefining the online betting landscape. “For the first time, users can bet on a wide variety of games, not just limited to football or premier leagues. This is a unique opportunity for fun and gaming while having the potential to win real money,” he stated.
The platform stands out by addressing common pain points experienced by users in the betting industry, particularly concerning payout delays. Users can create a secure wallet on the platform, with funds automatically linked to their accounts for swift payouts. Ubani reassured attendees that T2bet is collaborating with reputable international providers, ensuring the reliability and security of transactions.
“Our goal is to not only create a fun environment but also to add value to the economy,” Ubani remarked. “We’re bringing new solutions to existing market challenges, including the need for faster payments and more engaging betting experiences.”
Another key feature of T2bet is its affiliate program, which allows individuals to earn money by driving traffic to the platform. By participating as affiliates, users can earn income by referring others, creating a potential income stream without needing significant investments or prior experience.
Ubani pointed out that the platform is accessible to everyone, with betting options starting as low as 15 Naira. “Even a small deposit can turn into substantial earnings,” he explained. “If you bet 15 Naira and win, your return could be substantial, making this an exciting opportunity for users to engage and potentially benefit financially.”
The platform also offers extensive online resources for new users, including guides and tutorials to help them navigate their betting options. “We’ve designed this platform to be user-friendly and educational,” Ubani noted. “Once users log in, they will find everything they need to make informed decisions and enjoy their experience.”
With a vision to reshape the online gaming experience, T2Bet is set to lead the way in the industry by providing an engaging, fun, and secure environment for users.
The official launch of the platform is expected to generate excitement among both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike, paving the way for a new era in online gaming.
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