Odegbami Urges FG to Harness Sports for Orange Economy
Yemi Kosokoin Jos Former Super Eagles Captain, Chief Segun Odegbami, has called on the Federal Government to unlock the vast economic potential embedded in Nigeria’s sports sector, describing it as
Yemi Kosoko, a former Super Eagles captain, urged Nigeria's Federal Government to unlock the substantial economic potential hidden within the nation's sports sector. He described this sector as a vital catalyst for Nigeria's burgeoning Orange Economy, sustainable development, and national unity. Delivering a lecture titled "The Role of Sports as an Enabler of the Orange Economy" to participants of Senior Executive Course 48 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Plateau State, Odegbami advocated for substantial investment in sports infrastructure capable of functioning profitably beyond major tournaments.
He argued that Nigeria must develop the necessary structures, capacities, and confidence to compete globally, emphasizing that the country must "earn the right to become co-diners with the rest of the world." Odegbami stressed that sports should not be limited to football or competition; rather, it is a multifaceted ecosystem encompassing ticketing, branding, insurance, sports facility management, sportswear production, athlete branding, and various goods and services.
If properly harnessed, he suggested, this sector could create jobs, generate wealth, and significantly contribute to economic growth. He termed sports an "untapped resource" with the potential to foster national unity and social cohesion, citing examples from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Scandinavian nations where sports and physical activity are integrated into infrastructure planning.
He urged Nigeria to follow similar forward-thinking strategies to ensure community-focused stadia and facilities. Drawing from his own experience, Odegbami spoke about nurturing young talent through his sports academy and advocated for expanded opportunities for female athletes. At 74 years old, he still jogs regularly, encouraging young Nigerians to embrace fitness and healthy living.
He challenged Nigerians to abandon wishful thinking and develop the confidence and commitment necessary to transform potential into sustainable opportunities.
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