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Tag: sports

  • Sports isn’t witchcraft

    Sports isn’t witchcraft

    The ongoing Olympic Games have lived up to its reputation of humbling unprepared countries such as Nigeria. Previous champions in earlier editions at the Olympics were left wheezing for breath as new kids emerged in an astonishing manner. Upsets reigned supreme across all the Olympic sports, with many fairy tales brushed aside when push came to shove. Experience isn’t enough for athletes to grab medals. Not even luck could guarantee victory as athletes spared no trick during the games to earn winning points.

    How does one explain the situation where a cyclist was bold enough to tell the world that she forgot her bicycle in the camp hence, she had to borrow it from her German counterparts? She revealed further that her race was called earlier than anticipated. Nobi juju be that? The questions to ask would be where were her coaches and handlers not to know when her event was scheduled to be held? Shouldn’t she have been assigned a vehicle for training for daily practice before the event was held?

    Nigeria’s female basketball team,  D’ Tigress was one of the fairytale teams in Paris, beating world number three in the female version of the dunking game, Australia, losing to the French and beating Canada to earn a place in the quarterfinals against the United States of America (USA) on Wednesday night.  Nigeria lost 74-88 with Kalu, Musa an Okonkwo raising hopes of the D ‘ Tigress being a team to look out for in the next edition of the Olympic Games. Of course, the Americans knew what to expect from the Nigerians and resorted to the three-pointers while ensuring that Kalu was closely marked to stop her making the big three-pointers which she did with aplomb.

    D’ Tigress’ quarter-final feat was the first time any African team (male and female) would qualify at that level. The Nigerians planned for this showpiece by reporting early to the camp in Germany where they had top-quality friendly games against Serbia and Germany which they lost. But the vital lessons arising from their losses were not lost on them. They went back to the courts to brush off the rustic aspects of their game. Of course, no prize for guessing right that the Australians were beaten in the opening game of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games’ basketball event in Group C.

    Di Tigress’ two friendly losses served as the fillip for what they showcased before Wednesday’s quarter-final game. Did I hear you, dear reader say ”last bus stop for Nigeria?” The Americans have made basketball their fortress. It is the opium of the Americans. Not forgetting the impact the game has on the average American. The sporting world stays awake to watch the breath-taking games in the NBA which has now dovetailed to the women’s version, WNBA. How else can anyone measure growth in sports other than with Americans’ love for basketball?

    Pundits who predicted good tidings for Nigerian wrestlers relied on Igali’s expertise and experience as a gold medalist and an Olympian. But age played a trick on the wrestlers, many of whom should be told that their retirement time beckons. Igali gave them the best of training drills and the required pep talks to galvanise them to glory. But their better days in wrestling are falling short of the basics of the game.

    Read Also: Olympics: Nigeria and the muddling up of Sports

    Igali is the face of the future of wrestling in Nigeria and the sports minister would be energising any new system he is planning to adopt going forward if Igali serves as the pivot. Igali isn’t just anybody in wrestling and his inputs in practical terms have grown the game in Bayelsa State. What wrestling needs now is the spread of the game around the 774 Local Government Areas through regular wrestling competitions to increase the level of interest among the over 200 million people in Nigeria. The old names in wrestling are bowing out gracefully and they could be engaged gainfully as state and national teams’ coaches.

    A sport isn’t witchcraft. Winning medals, plaques, trophies, etc in sports comes with a lot of planning targeted at the grassroots in such a country, beginning with the primary, secondary, and polytechnics, universities etc . Sports in other climes are drawn on workable models where camps are situated in catchment areas whose topography encourages the discovery of athletes of particular games. Jos, for instance, should be where Nigeria can identify, train, and expose long-distance athletes to bigger competitions such as the Olympics. Have we exploited that area for rookies in the long-distance races?

    The catchment areas serve as the foundation for the games’ growth at all levels. The models provide the templates to make the project work, with the parameters set for the recruitment, training, and re-training of coaches, games masters, teachers’ training schools, and Colleges of Education with specialties in producing good coaches on the rudiments of the game. These educators in sports are sent to the catchment where they would introduce such games to the young ones.

    These catchment areas are otherwise known as the nurseries for identifying, training, and exposing the good ones to the bigger platforms starting with the different inter-house sports competitions at primary and secondary schools, Hussey Shield and Lady Manuwa Cups of yore, Morocco Clark Shield, etc.

    Isn’t laughable that Nigeria attended the 2024 Olympic Games in a year when the National Sports Festival didn’t take place in the years preceding the Olympics? Wasn’t the National Sports Festival meant to be the cradle to discover new talents in the 774 LGAs in the country? Where are the talents discovered in previous festivals and how well have we nurtured and exposed them since they were discovered?

    Pray, we are specialists in recycling athletes. It suits our administrators to celebrate athletes who attended six to seven Olympic Games without winning a medal of any colour. Other countries celebrate athletes who have participated in several Olympics winning gold, silver, and bronze medals. Most of these successful athletes would have won more silver and bronze medals than the gold medal. But the beauty about their medals’ winning feats is that they span through Olympic cycles showing that they went through the mill as young boys and girls when they won their first medals.

    Perhaps, the bitter lesson to be learned from the Paris Olympic Games is for the Sports Ministry to host the National Sports Festival in Abuja rather than allow state governors mess up the essence of the competition which to discover athletes who would represent the country in major tournaments. After, all isn’t that the only competition they organised in the past before the festival was bastardised with its rotation around the country which has suffered several postponements due to lack of cash?

    Not so in Nigeria where our athletes flaunt sworn- affidavits as their birthday records which all the time fail to stand the test of time. It takes at least two to three Olympic cycles to discover, nurture, and expose talents from the grassroots to stardom. So, when such a talent comes in with fraudulent sworn-affidavits as documents for their ages, it wouldn’t come as a surprise why such a talent won’t blossom. Sports isn’t rocket science? It also isn’t witchcraft. 

    Nigerians covered their faces in anguish as Ese Brume finished fifth in the women’s long jump event – one of the medals our officials counted for Nigeria before the Olympics. Shocked? Don’t be. Brume has been nursing an injury and wasn’t 100 per cent fit to win any medal. And it showed her performance. Pity.

    Will Nigeria win a medal at the Olympics in Paris? You tell me.

  • Sports as important part of cultural Diplomacy

    Sports as important part of cultural Diplomacy

    Sports have replaced the old fashioned way of spreading influence but not power as was the case with force of arms in the past. Everyone knows the traditional way of state relations by diplomacy and war can be very expensive. It is so expensive that not all states have diplomatic representation in many parts of the world. Poor states and not-so-poor states have to rationalize their diplomatic representations according to their means. This is why states with little financial muscles restrict their representation either to their key economic and trade partners and in some cases to the United Nations itself and countries where its special agencies are located like New York and in the case of specialized agencies like Geneva where the World Health Organisation, WHO is located or Vienna where the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or Washington DC where the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are located to mention a few.

    The idea is to rationale resources so that personnel of a regular embassy can also liaise with agencies of international organizations. Diplomatic representation is meant to represent government-to-government views on bilateral relations and happenings in the global arena for the purpose of coming to the same approach on issues of global peace and understanding among nations.

    Countries have found ways of promoting international understanding outside the normal protocols-ridden diplomatic relations. One of this instruments of promoting global relations and understanding is cultural diplomacy in which sports, literature, drama, music, art, museums, fashion and the whole gamut of cultural displays play significant role in fostering human relations and understanding even if sometimes imperceptibly.

    The ongoing Olympic Games in Paris and its winter variant just as the World Cup in soccer provide nations opportunities to show their accomplishments in relation to one another. Looking at the competitors, the way of their dresses, and their patriotic representation of their countries and their defence of their national flags, it shows the strength of their nations.  Politics is divorced from the games whether it is the Olympics or World Cup officially but we all know that politics is present in any international celebrations that bring the world together. It is therefore a pity when some countries are noticeably not adequately represented.

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    The Arab countries are noticeably not adequately represented and when they are represented at all, it is by what I will call hired athletes mostly from sub Saharan Africa. Women from these countries except Morocco are also absent and so is India vastly underrepresented. With a population of 1.4 billion people, one would want to see India take more robust part in the Olympics and global soccer competition. The reason for this near absence of these countries may be cultural when it concerns particularly their women folk. The role of religion, particularly Islamic countries, may be responsible for the low presence of most of these countries including countries with majority or substantial Muslim population like India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Afghanistan, the Arab countries and Nigeria too. One noticeable poor performance at the current Paris Olympics is Germany which in the past commanded noticeable attention in previous Olympic Games.

    The eastern part of Germany, the former GDR, used to command much attention by the number of the gold medals it won before its merger with Western Germany after unification in 1994. The number of gold medals the GDR used to win was only second to the USSR in communist Eastern Europe. It seems German sports including its soccer team is in downward spiral these days. The situation in Nigeria, the most populous country, is simply deplorable. One wonders why the Ivory Coast and even the Gambia are prominently represented in the sprints than Nigeria. Unlike the poor show of Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda Botswana and Republic of South Africa are massively represented. The few athletes representing Nigeria are poorly clad and from a layman’s observation, poorly trained and poorly coordinated. They are also too few compared with our population. It seems some of the Nigerians who show up for international sporting representation are those from Nigeria’s diaspora. This is not totally wrong because other countries do it but the dragnet is not wide enough to reach all the good ones who might want to carry the national flag as proud Jamaican athletes resident in the United States do.  I am sure if we have a programme targeted at them they will respond.

    We also need to brush up our governance system to make Nigerians resident abroad proud enough to want to carry our flag inside or outside the field of play. This is very important because people who are not at home yearn to see their sportsmen and women showing class and beautiful performance that they all can be proud of. Nigerians in the current Olympic Games are by their name recognition are representing Great Britain, the United States, Canada, the USA, Italy, even the Philippines and several Arab countries. This means that people are being attracted by either money, better training facilities or promise of future if not present employment opportunities.

    One of the noticeable things in these games is the universal presence of black and people of mixed race in countries that had no colonial contacts with Sub Saharan Africa. There are such people representing not only American, Canadian and European countries but countries in Asia like the Philippines, Japan  and Australia which gives the impression that despite the rise of racism in the world, the global population is increasingly being mixed and in a hundred years’ time, people will become more mixed than they are now.

    What should Nigeria do to recognize the importance of cultural diplomacy like sports for the future? Sports are not the only relevant thing in cultural diplomacy. There is a wide spectrum of cultural achievements like cultural artefacts, literature, drama, films and all aspects of cinematography, music and dancing and all the intangible manifestations of cultural achievements that we should share with the world to show the indigenous level of our civilization before contact with the outside world. Our government should, like other countries, encourage our authors to write about Nigeria and we should subsidize the publications so that they can be sold outside our country. Promotion of sports and supporting sports men and women can be expensive. We need to put in place the source of revenue for sports which will not be affected by the vagaries of rise and fall of annual budgets. Tax deductible funding of sports by the business sector of the economy can be a way of getting adequate resources.

    Other countries have monthly lotteries which yield large sums of money if well and honestly managed. Sports are huge sources of funds for domestic income and for generating massive employments for young people. It’s a win-win situation. We can use sports to promote the interests of the country cheaply which the traditional way of doing it expensively cannot attain or achieve. The kind of positive publicity countries gain through active participation in global sports meeting is too much to be underestimated. Investment in sports by all countries including the poor ones yields inestimable dividends at the end of the day. Nigeria should pay more attention to this aspect of cultural diplomacy now and in the future.

  • Eight reasons you should engage in sports

    Eight reasons you should engage in sports

    Engaging in sports and physical activity is not only an enjoyable pastime but also provides numerous benefits for both physical and mental health.

    Whether you’re a professional athlete or someone who enjoys recreational sports, incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can positively impact every aspect of your life.

    Here are some of the key benefits of participating in sports:

    1. Improved physical fitness: One of the most obvious benefits of doing sports is improved physical fitness. Regular participation in sports helps to build strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility. It can also help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

    2. Increased cardiovascular health: Engaging in sports that involve aerobic activity, such as running, swimming, or cycling, can help to improve cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving circulation. This can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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    3. Enhanced mental health: Physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Sports can help to boost mood, improve self-esteem, and enhance cognitive function. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

    4. Social connection: Sports offer a great opportunity to connect with others and build relationships. Whether you are playing on a team, participating in a group fitness class, or joining a sports club, engaging in sports can help you to meet new people, make friends, and foster a sense of community.

    5. Improved coordination and motor skills: Playing sports requires coordination, balance, and motor skills. Regular participation in sports can help to enhance these abilities, leading to better overall physical performance and reduced risk of injury.

    6. Stress relief: Physical activity, including sports, is an effective way to relieve stress and tension. The release of endorphins during exercise can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

    7. Discipline and goal-setting: Sports require dedication, discipline, and goal-setting. By participating in sports, you can learn valuable lessons about setting and achieving goals, staying motivated, and persevering through challenges. These skills can be applied to other areas of life as well.

    8. Improved sleep quality: Regular physical activity, including sports, can help to promote better sleep quality and regulate sleep patterns. It can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more rested and energized.

    Therefore, participating in sports offers a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health. From improved physical fitness and cardiovascular health to enhanced mental well-being and social connection, there are countless reasons to incorporate sports into your routine. So whether you enjoy team sports, individual activities, or group fitness classes, find something you love and get moving – your body and mind will thank you for it.

  • FG urges stakeholders to adopt holistic approach to sports development

    The federal government has called on all stakeholders in the sports industry to adopt a holistic and inclusive approach to develop sports in the country and harness benefits therefrom.

    Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Tinuke Watti, made the call on Monday, May 20, while welcoming delegates from the ministries of sports in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to the ongoing 1st National Council on Sports (NCS) holding in Enugu.

    Watti, who stated that sports have significant potential for socio-economic growth, added that sports are not just games, but major industries with the capacity to generate employment, drive economic development, and improve public health.

    According to her, investments in sports infrastructure and programmes could help boost the nation’s economy.

    “Sports, when rightly positioned, will help to take the youth off crime as successful athletes serve as role models, inspiring younger generations to aspire to greatness and engage in productive activities.

    “To harness these benefits, however, it is imperative that we adopt a holistic and inclusive approach to sports development. This includes fostering partnerships between the government, private sector, and international bodies.

    “It means ensuring that our policies are geared towards inclusivity, providing opportunities for all, regardless of gender, age, or socio-economic background.

    “It also involves leveraging technology and innovation to enhance training, performance, and fan engagement”, the permanent secretary said.

    Speaking on the theme: “Sports for National Unity and Socio-Economic Growth”, Watti said the meeting could not have been more timely given the challenges and opportunities of the current era.

    While urging the delegates to seize the opportunity to make meaningful strides in the nation’s sports development agenda, she noted that sports had long been a cornerstone of the nation’s cultural fabric, as according to her, “they transcend the barriers of language, ethnicity, and religion, uniting us under the common banner of competition, achievement, and collective pride.

    “In every corner of our country, from the cities to the towns and villages, sports bring us together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose”.

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    The deputy governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, who was represented by the state commissioner for youths and sports, Loyd Ekweremadu stated that the next generation of Nigerian sports stars could be nurtured through strategic investment, community engagement, and robust policy frameworks.

    He urged the delegates to leverage their collective expertise to address the challenges facing the nation’s sports sector and explore innovative solutions that will propel the country to greater heights.

    “Key areas such as infrastructure development, athlete welfare, funding mechanisms, coaching standards, and grassroots sports programs require your utmost attention and concerted efforts.

    “We must ensure that our policies are inclusive, providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, background, or ability. Let us strive to create an environment where every young person can dream, excel, and achieve greatness through sports”, he said.

  • US sports envoys ignite breakdancing enthusiasm in Nigeria

    US sports envoys ignite breakdancing enthusiasm in Nigeria

    Two celebrated American breakdance experts Macca Malik and Jacob “Kujo” Lyons visited Nigeria last week as part of the United States Department of State’s Sports Envoy Programme.

    The experts’ weeklong programme in Abuja and Lagos was organised with support from the US State Department’s Sports Diplomacy Division and the US Mission in Nigeria, in partnership with FAME Foundation, a non-profit led by Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, a US government exchange alumna.

    In Abuja, the US Sports Envoys engaged with the Nigerian Olympic Committee, highlighting breaking’s new global status as an Olympic sport, and offering world-class opportunities for Nigerian breakers.

    The US government’s commitment to Nigerian youth and inclusion was further demonstrated through their inspiring visit to the school for the deaf in Kuje, where they shared personal stories of dedication, leadership, and teamwork, empowering students to form a Breakdance Club and reinforcing the belief that “there is ability in disability.”

    The Envoys shared best practices for managing sports for people with disabilities. As part of their outreach, the Envoys led workshops and masterclasses at Krump Dance Studio, where breakers from Northern Nigeria gained valuable insights on preparing for Olympic competitions and mastering their techniques.

    In Lagos, the Sports Envoys conducted masterclasses at the Nation Dance Studio for emerging and established breakers and shared valuable tips on how to prepare for breaking competitions. They also participated in an American Spaces Employability Webinar and engaged with breaking enthusiasts gathered at the network of 27 American Spaces in Nigeria. During the webinar, the Envoys discussed how the participants can transform their passion for breaking and other artistic forms of expression into fulfilling careers and highlighted the role of sports in developing self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

    To conclude their visit to Nigeria, the US Sports envoys alongside their workshop participants showcased artistic brilliance through captivating public performances in Abuja and Lagos where audiences were treated to breathtaking choreography and compelling narratives.

    Acting US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Joseph Zadrozny noted that the Sports Envoy program was organized to promote cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and the enrichment of local communities through the universal language of dance and sports.

    “Our sports envoy programme has emerged as an integral part of efforts to build on the strong people-to-people connections between the United States and Nigeria,” Zadrozny said. “The lessons shared by our Sports Envoys – communication, teamwork, resilience, inclusion, and conflict resolution – are essential for leadership development, community building, equality, and peace.”

    The sports envoys’ passion for breaking and desire to share knowledge with emerging and established breakers, as well as their willingness to explore other cultures, resulted in tremendous appreciation from the Nigerian breaking community, sports, and cultural leaders.

  • Empowering Africa through international sports events

    Empowering Africa through international sports events

    Hosting international sports events in Africa has become a beacon of hope and a source of pride for many countries within the continent. These events not only showcase the rich cultural heritage and hospitality of African nations but also offer a platform for economic and infrastructural development. In this article, we explore the multifaceted impact of these sports events on the host countries, communities, and the continent at large.

    The gateway to global recognition

    One of the most immediate effects of hosting international sports events is the global attention it brings to the host country. This attention is not just limited to sports fans but also includes international investors, tourists, and global media. For instance, the successful hosting of the African Cup of Nations has repeatedly placed the spotlight on various African countries, showcasing their capacity to organize large-scale international events. This global recognition is crucial for breaking stereotypes and changing the narrative around African nations.

    Moreover, for sports enthusiasts looking to engage more deeply with African sports events, platforms like Sure sportbet log in offer a gateway to participate and support their favorite teams and athletes, thus fostering a deeper connection between the continent and the global sports community.

    Economic impact and infrastructure development

    Hosting international sports events often leads to significant economic benefits for the host country. These benefits come in various forms:

    • Boost in tourism: These events attract thousands of international visitors, leading to increased revenue for the tourism sector.
    • Infrastructure development: The necessity to accommodate large numbers of visitors and provide world-class facilities often accelerates infrastructure development, including transportation, hospitality, and sports facilities.

    Job creation and community involvement

    Another significant benefit is the creation of jobs and the involvement of local communities. These events require a large workforce for planning, construction, hospitality, and security, providing employment opportunities for locals.

    • Construction and renovation of stadiums and facilities create numerous jobs.
    • The hospitality and service industries also see a boom, benefiting from the influx of visitors.

    Cultural exchange and national pride

    International sports events serve as a platform for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and unity among different cultures. They provide an opportunity for African countries to showcase their traditions, cuisine, and hospitality, enriching the experience for international visitors and athletes alike.

    Challenges and sustainable practices

    While the benefits are numerous, hosting such events also presents challenges. It’s crucial for host countries to implement sustainable practices to ensure that the infrastructure developed does not become a burden post-event. Environmental considerations and long-term usage plans for facilities are essential to avoid the so-called “white elephants” – facilities that are rarely used after the event.

    Case studies: success stories from Africa

    Several African countries have successfully hosted international sports events, leaving lasting legacies. For example:

    • South Africa’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2010 not only boosted the economy but also left a legacy of improved infrastructure and increased national pride.
    • The African Cup of Nations has been instrumental in showcasing the continent’s passion for football, with countries like Egypt, Cameroon, and Nigeria demonstrating their organizational capabilities.

    Enhancing youth engagement and sports development

    One often overlooked but significant impact of hosting international sports events in Africa is the enhanced engagement of the youth in sports. These events inspire young individuals, showcasing a pathway to both national and international arenas. Countries like Kenya and Ethiopia, renowned for their long-distance runners, have used these platforms to motivate and train the next generation of athletes. Moreover, initiatives to develop local talent are frequently launched in the wake of such events, including sports academies and training camps. These not only help in identifying and nurturing future champions but also play a crucial role in promoting healthy lifestyles and discipline among the youth. Through these events, African nations are laying the foundation for a robust future in various sports disciplines, ensuring that the continent remains a significant player on the global sports stage.

    The way forward: leveraging opportunities

    The journey doesn’t end with hosting. African countries must leverage the exposure and infrastructure developed through these events for sustainable growth. This involves promoting tourism, attracting international investments, and using sports as a tool for social and economic development.

    Hosting international sports events in Africa offers a unique opportunity to showcase the continent’s capabilities, foster economic growth, and promote cultural exchange. While challenges exist, the potential benefits and lasting impact on the host countries and their communities are immense. Through careful planning, sustainable practices, and community involvement, Africa can continue to shine on the global sports stage, proving that sports can indeed be a powerful catalyst for unity and development.

  • School director highlights benefits of sports

    School director highlights benefits of sports

    Chairman of the Board of Directors, Blue Dreams International School (BIS), Segun Olalere has said that asides improving ones’  fitness , engaging in sports can  equally generate income.

     Olalere said  as much  during  the school’s   biennial inter-house sports competition held at  Home Science Association School’s pitch in  Ajegunle, Lagos.

    Olalere said: “The money spinning industry now is sports, that’s why we encourage our students to fully participate in sporting activities. Whether it’s football, athletics, or any form of sport that can complement what they are doing in the class, we encourage them to do it.

    “Engaging in sports has benefits. It can improve their fitness level and can also be used to generate income. So sports now is part of us and it is recognized worldwide as a money spinning venture. We even have a former student who plays professionally now.

    “The awareness now is high not only in football, basketball is also taking shape. People have realized that if you can run well, you can make something out of it.

    “The government also has been trying but we lack facility, they need to put facilities in place for the youths to develop their talents. We should have community stadiums. Putting these infrastructures in place will create more jobs.”

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    He further advised the students to improve on their talent, be focused and continue to do what they know how to do best because with that they can go anywhere.

    Chairman of the occasion, Onabanjo Oluwole ,  an Advert Executive with The Guardian newspaper , expressed his delight at the enthusiasm with which the children engaged in the sporting event and advised those who do not engage in such activities to do so.

    He said: “I was really impressed with what I saw, it was a great event. I advise children who do not participate in such events to try because they are still young and they are the leaders of tomorrow. Some feel very lazy to engage in the trainings.

    “They should put more effort in anything they are doing and anywhere they find themselves, because they don’t know where they will find themselves later in life,” he said.

    Vice Chairman, Parents Teachers Association (PTA), Mrs Basirat Salako, said that inter-house is perfect for improving team spirit amongst children.

    She said: “Blue Dream is trying to expose our children even far beyond the limit that they can reach. It is not only about sports, even in other areas, they try their best as much as possible to expose the children to competition out there. This will give the children a clue on what they should improve on. The inter house sport was good and fair, perfect for improving team spirit amongst children.”

  • Ministry to boost sports development through specialized lottery trust fund

    Ministry to boost sports development through specialized lottery trust fund

    Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has revealed plans to pursue a Lottery Trust Fund that is specific to sports, in order to significantly bolster funding for the sector.

    The Minister said during a briefing to outline his vision for this financing model, as he highlighted the critical need for sustained and enhanced funding to elevate Nigeria’s sports industry to new heights.

    “Part of the funding models and ideas the Ministry of Sports Development is trying to work on, is on trying to explore the possibilities of having a lottery trust fund that is specific to sports,” Senator Enoh said. “In other developed climes, there is a dedicated lottery trust fund for sports. This does not mean we do not have a right or a claim to the lottery trust fund.”

    “Some years back, when this trust fund was put in place, there may not have been an appreciation of the kind of role and contribution that sports was going to make in terms of the development of this trust fund. Several years later, the present contribution of sports to that fund is more than any other sector and I think the Ministry is going to keep on engaging with the leadership of the lottery trust fund and see what benefits we can have from that fund”

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    It is envisaged that this dedicated fund will serve as a catalyst for change, empowering athletes, fostering grassroots development, and enabling the modernization/upgrading of sports infrastructure nationwide.

    Senator Enoh had earlier reiterated that the Ministry was  embracing more dynamism in its collaborations with key stakeholders, including sports federations, relevant government bodies, private sector partners, and the general public, fostering a collective effort to drive sustainable growth and excellence in Nigerian sports.

    The Ministry of Sports anticipates that the establishment of the Lottery Trust Fund for sports will signify a transformative milestone in the pursuit of sporting excellence and will solidify Nigeria’s position as a powerhouse in the world of sports.

  • Sports ministry strategise for revival of school sports

    Sports ministry strategise for revival of school sports

    The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh has stated that Nigeria’s journey towards sporting excellence hinges on the strategic provision of essential sports infrastructure and nurturing talents at the grassroots level.

    He stated this during a radio engagement with Nigerians on Brila Media’s Sports Fans Parliament. He said a critical first step towards this noble goal involves a rejuvenation of the school sports system.

    Senator Enoh passionately asserted that revitalizing School Sports and returning it to its former glory is imperative. He acknowledged that this initiative necessitates not only the enhancement of existing programs but also an ambitious collaboration with stakeholders, most notably through a robust private-public partnership.

    In his address, the Minister stated thus: “School sports would come back. The ministry is going to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Education, because they are going to be a necessary partner in this.”

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    “I’m aware that we have had different people sponsor different aspects of school sports, but this has also largely been limited and restricted to a few states, or a zone. The school sport that the ministry is going to resuscitate is going to have a national scope and therefore have every part of the country get involved.”

    Beyond talent development, the School Sports system has also proven instrumental in curbing age cheating, fostering proper documentation, and nurturing aspiring athletes with exceptional skills and talents. This holistic approach ensures that promising athletes receive the support and mentorship they need to reach their full potential.

    In light of Senator John Owan Enoh’s visionary blueprint, it is clear that the revitalization of school sports will play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s sporting resurgence. By embracing a nationwide approach and engaging with diverse stakeholders, this initiative promises to bring back the glory days of School Sports, fostering a brighter future for Nigerian athletes and a more competitive and successful sporting landscape.

    Historically, School Sports has been a catalyst for Nigeria’s rise to prominence in the global and national sporting arena. It served as a breeding ground for prodigious talents who later earned acclaim as athletes and coaches. Icons such as Stephen Keshi, Daniel Amokachi, Henry Nwosu, Mary Onyali-Omagbemi, Chioma Ajunwa, Ese Brume, etc., owe their success to the school sports system.

  • Sports Analytics and Predictions: A Sure Way to Winning

    Sports Analytics and Predictions: A Sure Way to Winning

    In the beautiful world of sports, the ability to make informed decisions can be the difference between victory and defeat, both on the field and in the betting arena. Therefore, smart sports lovers with an aim to win on and off the field must understand the core details of analysis. Thankfully, there’s an innovative solution that’s changing the game – King Solomon.

    This article will provide insight into King Solomon’s value, explain how crucial effective analysis is to your successful bets, and give reasons why you should trust the analytics and predictions from King Solomon. 

    First, What is KGSB?

    King Solomon Bet’s platform is your one-stop destination for cutting-edge sports analytics and predictions, offering a treasure trove of data-driven insights that can transform the way you engage with your favorite sports.

    The platform offers premium online tips about tips from sports in all parts of the world. Furthermore, you get to join a community of like-minded winners who understand the role of accurate analysis in sports betting.

    How Analytics Drives Success In Sports Betting

    Current research shows that whether you’re an avid sports fan, a seasoned bettor, or a fantasy sports enthusiast, proper analytics will increase your chances of placing successful bets and cashing out massively.

    By harnessing the power of data, bettors gain a competitive edge. Advanced statistics, player performance metrics, and historical trends allow for informed decisions, reducing reliance on luck. These insights enable more accurate predictions, better risk management, and ultimately higher chances of success.

    In plain terms, sports betting is no longer just a gamble. It is now a science where analytics drives winning strategies.

    Here’s how King Solomon’s Analytics Will Improve Your Chances of Winning Bets:

    1. Predictive Prowess

    A proven strategy is to leverage state-of-the-art algorithms and real-time data to make accurate predictions for a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more. These predictions are a game-changer for anyone looking to gain an edge in sports betting or fantasy leagues.

    2. Real-Time Updates

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    4. Tailored Insights:

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    5. Expert Betting Advice:

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    6. Deep Dive Analysis:

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    A Final Note

    The King Solomon platform is a game-changer.

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    In a world where sports knowledge is power, effective analytics from King Solomon Bet is your key to unlocking the full potential of your sports passion. Make sure to check out this game-changing platform and be prepared to elevate your sports experience to new heights.

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