President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has called for a national rethink on the value of sports, declared that it is no longer a pastime but a powerful economic force capable of transforming lives and nations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival held yesterday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Senator Akpabio emphasized that the sports sector hold immense potential for job creation, national unity, health promotion, and economic growth if given the right attention and investment.
“Sports is no longer a pastime; it is an economic force. An instrument of unity and national integration,” Akpabio said, while addressing athletes, coaches, officials, and government functionaries at the event.
Citing global statistics, he noted that the sports industry was valued at $484.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit $507.69 billion by 2025, contributing around 2% of global GDP. He lamented, however, that Africa’s contribution remains at a modest 0.5%, which he described as a “growth gap” and a call to action.
“This reveals a growth gap and an opportunity. It is a call to action for governments, schools, private investors, and corporate organizations to recognize sports not as leisure, but as leverage for national development,” he said.
The Senate President, who is widely recognized for building the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State, used the occasion to advocate for structured sports development in schools, athletic scholarships, and corporate investment in leagues, clubs, and academies.
In an emotional moment, Akpabio shared the inspirational story of Lionel Messi, who overcame childhood health challenges and was discovered because one person believed in him.
“Messi had the gift, but he needed someone to believe in him… Never underestimate the power of vision, persistence, and a single act of faith—whether it’s a paper napkin or a lifetime of dreams,” he said.
“Talent is universal but opportunity is not. We must create the opportunities for our talents. No Messi should be allowed to wallow and die in insignificance.”
He commended the Ogun State Government for providing a “secure, ambient, and inspiring” environment for the festival, and praised the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the National Sports Commission for a well-organized and vibrant national event.
“To the champions congratulations. To the hopeful keep training. To Nigeria your greatness is only beginning,” Akpabio declared as he officially brought the curtain down on the 2025 edition of the festival.
The National Sports Festival, often described as Nigeria’s “Olympics,” featured athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory competing across multiple sporting disciplines.
