By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Suleiman Abubakar, has called for stronger legislation and sustainable funding to transform Nigeria’s sports sector, while declaring the institute’s support for the All Africa Challenge Trophy by Ladies Golfers Association of Nigeria.
Prof. Abubakar said government, lawmakers and the private sector must work together to establish policies and laws that will guarantee sustainable investment in sports development across the country.
“Everybody loves sports, but government must provide the enabling environment for it to thrive. We must put in place policies and legislation that will encourage participation and compel greater investment in sports development,” he said.
He stressed that sports remain a vital tool for nation-building, healthy living, economic development and national image, urging the National Assembly and state legislatures to enact laws that will create dedicated funding for sports and strengthen oversight of the sector.
“Sports is health. Sports is life. It remains an instrument of nation-building, a booster of our country’s image and an important tool of foreign policy. If sports play such a pivotal role, then government and parliament must show greater commitment,” Prof. Abubakar added.
Speaking on the All Africa Challenge Trophy by Ladies Golfers Association of Nigeria, the NILDS Director-General described the initiative as a significant platform for promoting gender inclusion and increasing opportunities for women in sports.
“We talk about gender inclusivity and advancing the cause of women. These women have not only competed successfully with their counterparts across Africa, but are also working to bring this prestigious tournament to Nigeria. We need to encourage them, support them and connect them with policymakers,” he said.
Prof. Abubakar noted that under the Memorandum of Understanding with the organisers, NILDS will provide technical support, policy advocacy and facilitate engagement with government and lawmakers to help ensure the successful hosting of the All Africa Challenge Trophy by Ladies Golfers Association of Nigeria, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to policies that promote women’s participation and the overall development of sports in the country.