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The answer to this question may sound controversial; however, I believe that most Nigerians know! Sports development in most nations of the world is not a means of getting the youths busy; rather, a means of attaining national economic growth, reducing unemployment, expanding the productive capacity of the people.
While that is the general impression about sport development, succeeding supervisors of sports in Nigeria have seen sports development as a necessary evil or at best; an inconvenient way of engaging the youths. While the sports in Nigeria were setting out for growth, the last administration led by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, sacked the former sports minister, replacing him with a lawyer from Rivers State. What did we get in return? Countless court cases!
Upon election of this current administration, many Nigerians anticipated the arrival of a vibrant, innovative and dynamic sports minister; however, the anticipation turned to surprise and further shock when the new sports minister chose to appear in para-military uniforms in public events and meetings – what else do we expect from a former Prison Officer! I think we must accept the reality in this nation: “We will have what we accept!”
While I believe that Mr Solomo Dalung is not without any possible value to Nigeria, I am of the opinion that he should be helped out of the sports ministry and given a portfolio of his true passion and practice. The earlier Mr President does this, the better for him, Mr President, APC and Nigeria. For why can’t sports ministry be supervised by a Nigerian with great sport experience, record and practice. Indeed, if the ministry of defense is manned by a Retired General, and the ministry of health is supervised by a Medical Doctor, I think the ministry of sports deserve a retired and celebrated sportsman in Nigeria. I rest my case for now!