By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted November 15, 2024
At the recent Personality Guest Lecture at the University of Ibadan’s Faculty of Education, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, former President of the Nigeria Football Federation and FIFA Council Member, emphasized the urgent need for a reinvigorated approach to sports infrastructure maintenance in Nigeria.
Highlighting the significant role that adequate sports facilities play in fostering talent and hosting international competitions, Pinnick outlined the historical trajectory of infrastructure decline, noting its adverse effects on talent development, national pride, and Nigeria’s capacity to host major events.
In his lecture, titled ‘The Challenges of Sports Infrastructure and Maintenance in Nigeria: Prospect for the Podium Performance’, Pinnick pointed out that outdated facilities discourage athletes and limit the country’s competitive edge.
He urged for the adoption of modern maintenance technologies and innovative funding solutions, including public-private partnerships.
Pinnick proposed a unique “cluster model” to rank Nigerian states by their sports infrastructure, fostering healthy competition among them to boost infrastructure standards. Through these measures, he argued, Nigeria could revitalize its sports sector and enhance its international performance.
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“There are a few success stories on the African continent, such as South Africa and Morocco, who have a national sports maintenance agency. We do not necessarily need to copy them; we can develop what will work for us. What is important now is that we must confront this sport infrastructural deficit head-on and the Federal Government, States, local councils, tertiary institutions, private club owners and private investors all have roles to play.
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“With improved sport infrastructure round the country, there will be brighter prospects for podium performance by our athletes in international competitions, as we will be able to discover more talents in their youth, have the capacity to nurture them and utilize the facilities optimally to blood them to real competitors. In addition, our country will be able to host major competitions, and our national pride and sense of identity as host of big events will be restored.”
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Kayode Adebowale mni, emphasized in his opening address, the university’s vision and mission, which includes fostering a love for sports and promoting national growth and development. He noted that sport plays a vital role in shaping individuals, communities and nations, and commended Pinnick’s efforts in advancing the cause of Nigeria sport internationally.
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In his contribution, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Olufemi Adegbesan, hailed Pinnick for his engaging delivery, which was also inspiring, insightful and thought-provoking. He described him as a visionary leader, astute administrator and a passionate advocate of sport infrastructure development in the country.
Goodwill messages were received from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Patrice Motsepe (virtual), as well as Alhaji Shehu Dikko (Chairman, National Sports Commission), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (President, NFF), Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi (Former 1st Vice President, NFF) and Ms Aisha Falode (Member, NFF Executive Committee) who were all physically present.
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The carnival-like opening to the lecture featured dance performances by Itsekiri and Brazilian groups, and a special performance by the Nigeria Football Supporters Club led by its President-General Worldwide, Dr Rafiu Oladipo.
Pinnick was presented with a distinguished service award by the Faculty of Education. The award was presented by Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics).
The guest lecture had in attendance the full team of the university’s management. Also present were Oyo State Sports Commissioner, Hon. Wosilat Adegoke; Oba James Odeniran, Chairman of Oyo State Football Association; former NFF General Secretary, Dr. Bolaji Ojo-Oba and; NFF’s Director of Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire.