Once a beacon of sports talent and development, Kogi State is now grappling with a grave crisis in its sports sector. The situation has become so dire that it can only be described as a state of emergency.
The state’s sports infrastructure and management are comatose, from neglected stadium to the mass exodus of athletes seeking better opportunities elsewhere. Without urgent intervention, Kogi risks losing its historical reputation as a sports hub.
A State of Coma in Kogi Sports
One of the most glaring issues plaguing sports in Kogi State is the underutilisation of the Confluence Stadium. Despite being a state of the art facility, the stadium has never hosted any national championship since its completion. This lack of activity is a waste of resources, as the stadium could serve as a major venue for sporting events, bringing both national attention and economic benefits to the state.
Moreover, while Kogi United FC is the only sport currently receiving funding, the amount allocated is far from adequate. Other sports in the state have been left to struggle, with no financial support, training facilities, or opportunities for athletes to develop their skills. This situation has led to a mass exodus of athletes from Kogi, as they seek better prospects in other states with more robust sports programs.
The Crisis of Retirement Without Replacement
Another critical issue is the impending crisis within the Kogi State Sports Council. Coaches and staff who have dedicated years to the development of sports in the state are retiring, but there are no plans in place to replace them. This lack of succession planning could leave the sports sector in disarray, further limiting the opportunities for the younger generation of athletes to thrive.
Furthermore, there are no state-sponsored salaries or benefits for athletes. Without financial support from the government, many talented individuals are forced to abandon their sporting dreams or leave for states where their careers can be better supported. The absence of a clear and structured approach to athlete welfare is one of the most pressing concerns in Kogi’s sports sector.
Proposed Solutions: A Way Forward
To address these alarming issues, immediate and decisive action is required. The first step in rescuing Kogi’s sports sector is to declare a State of Emergency on Sports. This declaration would underscore the urgency of the situation and signal a commitment to resolving the crisis. It would also enable the state government to allocate resources specifically to sports development, ensuring that funding reaches the right areas.
In addition to this, a three-day stakeholders’ meeting should be organized to bring together sports leaders from Kogi State who are based across the country. This forum would provide a platform for open discussion, collaboration, and idea sharing among key stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, administrators, and government representatives. It would serve as a critical step towards creating a unified strategy for the development of sports in the state.
The chairmen of the various sports associations in Kogi should also be engaged in one on one discussions with the Governor. These conversations would offer a chance for leaders of specific sports to present their challenges and aspirations, ensuring that all sports are treated with the attention and resources they deserve.
As the National Sports Festival in Ogun State approaches, Kogi’s elite athletes, many of whom have shown promise in previous competitions, must be actively engaged. The State Government should provide them with the necessary incentives, training facilities, and motivation to excel, ensuring that Kogi is well represented at the event.
Infrastructure Development is Key
A critical component of Kogi’s sports revival is the construction of stadia and sports facilities across the three senatorial districts. This would not only provide athletes with the facilities they need to train and compete but also make sports accessible to all communities in the state. Such infrastructure would ensure that every part of Kogi has an equal opportunity to contribute to the state’s sports excellence.
Lastly, sports must be integrated into the curriculum of primary and secondary schools. By nurturing athletic talent from a young age, Kogi can build a strong foundation for future sports stars. This investment in youth development will pay off in the long term, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of athletes for years to come.
A Call for Immediate Action
The state of sports in Kogi is at a crossroads, and the window for action is narrowing. It is now up to the leadership of Governor Usman Ododo to take decisive steps towards reviving sports in the state. By declaring a state of emergency on sports, engaging stakeholders, and investing in infrastructure and youth development, Kogi can return to its rightful place as a leader in Nigerian sports.
The time for action is now. With the right support, planning, and investment, Kogi State can once again produce World Class athletes, host prestigious sporting events, and use sports as a tool for youth development, unity, and economic growth. The future of Kogi’s sports sector depends on the decisions made today.
– Dare Kuti
