For over a decade, Akwa Ibom has stood as the beating heart of Nigerian sports — a modern-day Mecca for sporting excellence. From hosting international Super Eagles fixtures at the iconic Godswill Akpabio Stadium to serving as a launchpad for national tournaments, the state has led by example.
Now, Ogun State is stepping boldly into that spotlight, fast becoming a rising force with its own cutting-edge infrastructure. In recent times, it has played host to the Super Falcons, Flying Eagles, the National Sports Festival, and now, the prestigious African Athletics Championship (CAA), putting Abeokuta squarely on the continental map.
Speaking on the sidelines of the CAA in Abeokuta, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, shared a compelling vision: every state in Nigeria transformed into a hub of sporting activities.
“I’ve spent nearly 30 years in the business of sports, and I’ve seen firsthand how it transforms lives — especially our youth,” Olopade said. “That’s why we’re building a nationwide sports ecosystem. When every state has the right structure, you solve half of the issues. Youths become engaged, productive, and peaceful — and that creates the calm, secure environment needed for investment and development.”
Citing Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Ogun States as benchmarks, Olopade praised their unwavering commitment to sports development. He also pointed to Enugu State as the next big mover, with its government now recognizing sports as a powerful tool for economic growth and SME development.
“Enugu is already positioning itself to host the National Sports Festival — a smart move. Sports naturally draws people in. When well-managed, it fuels enterprise, creates jobs, and drives local economies. With their plans, Enugu could become a major sporting hub in just a few years, with ripple effects across its entire ecosystem,” he said.
Looking ahead, Olopade emphasized the need for a broader vision — one that includes every region and every sport.
“Kano has deep roots in football and basketball, but we want to see other sports — badminton, volleyball, cricket, rugby — flourish there too. That will only happen if we unite and start viewing sports not just as a billion-dollar industry, but as a tool for youth empowerment and national growth.”
From state to state, the momentum is building — and if the current trajectory continues, Nigeria could soon witness a golden era where every region is not just playing the game, but winning on all fronts.