Diaspora And Development, Critical Elements To Sustainable Economic Growth
By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
Nigerians have been urged to diversify the nation’s economy by seeking new and sustainable channels that will turn around the fortunes embedded in Sports.
Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development Senator, John Enoh made the call at the sixth Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in Abuja.
According to Mr. Enoh Nigeria has the potential to grow its GDP enormously through various avenues, particularly in sports.
“Nigeria is a brand in the sports business, in areas like football, athletics, boxing and mixed martial arts, with its talents scattered across the world. Sports can be converted into sports tourism which provides a win-win situation for the country, in terms of Diaspora Direct Investment (DDI) and Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), GDP growth, job opportunities, industrialisation and reduction in youth rascalities, crimes and criminalities. Sports can transform the lives of individuals. It bolsters physical, psychological, emotional, and social well-being and development.” He said
Noting that “At the same time, sport plays a significant role in cultures and communities around the world. These factors alone justify investment in sports. But there is also a growing understanding that sports. Programs merit support because they are powerful vehicles for achieving broader goals, particularly in advancing development and peace agendas,” he noted.
He added that partnering with Nigerians in the Diaspora, who have the resources, expertise and global exposure in this field of sports will boost the nations economy.
“with Diaspora partnership, training centres and learning skills in sports-related courses will be advanced, more youths will be encouraged to take up jobs in sports and there will be large funding for research and welfare packages, such as pension for veteran coaches, players and other sports professionals in the Nigerian sports industry. when such collaboration is made available, Nigeria can have the full capacity to host international tournaments and sports festivals, that will boost the country’s tourism sector”. He added
Stakeholders are of the view that the theme, of the NDIS is very apt, given that it presents itself at a time, the current government is poised to redefine every sector of Nigeria’s economy, including Sports development, to greatness.
