Akpabio declares sports an economic force at National Sports Festival closing
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described sports as a powerful economic force and instrument of national integration, urging both public and private stakeholders to invest more intentionally in the sector. He made the call on Thursday while declaring the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival officially closed in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Akpabio cited global figures showing the sports industry was worth $484.9 billion in 2023, with projections to reach $507.69 billion by 2025, contributing nearly 2% of global GDP. In contrast, he noted that Africa’s contribution remains at just 0.5%, calling it a “growth gap and an opportunity” for countries like Nigeria to act. He stressed the need to shift perception from sports as leisure to a tool for economic development and national unity.
He praised all athletes at the festival, saying, “Every single participant is a winner—because you first won in your state, and earned your right to stand on this national platform.” He also thanked the Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, and the Ogun State government for hosting what he called a vibrant and seamless event.
Recalling his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio highlighted the construction of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as a testament to his belief in the transformative power of sports. “That edifice was not just concrete and steel—it was a statement of belief in what sports can do for a people and a nation,” he said.
He urged the integration of sports into school curriculums nationwide, complete with structured programs, facilities, and scholarships. Akpabio also called on corporate organizations to invest in leagues, academies, and tournaments—not as charity, but as strategic national development initiatives.
In a motivational message to young athletes, he said, “Sports is not just a game—it is a window to greatness.” He illustrated this with the story of Lionel Messi, whose football journey began despite medical challenges and was made possible by someone who believed in his potential.
“The moral of the story is that talent is universal, but opportunity is not,” Akpabio said. “No Messi should be allowed to wallow and die in insignificance. We must create opportunities for our talents.” He called for more sporting events and investments to discover and nurture Nigeria’s hidden stars.
Declaring the festival closed, Akpabio concluded, “To the champions—congratulations. To the hopeful—keep training. To Nigeria—your greatness is only beginning.”
