The Minister of Sports, Senator John Uwan Enoh, and Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, yesterday expressed mutual interest in partnering to promote sports development.
They highlighted the potential of sports to generate employment, stimulate economic growth, and address security concerns.
Senator Enoh praised Governor Mbah’s efforts in enhancing sporting infrastructure in the state, emphasizing the federal government’s eagerness to collaborate with Enugu to turn sports into a profitable industry.
He underlined the transformative power of sports, stating, “Sports is a $5 trillion industry that can inspire and bring hope, especially to the youth. It has the capacity to transcend racial discrimination and injustices, going beyond government boundaries.”
Senator Enoh also discussed the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Sports Development by President Bola Tinubu, recognizing the role of sports in job creation and economic progress.
He equally said that there is need to harness the enthusiasm and energy of the youth for the sports business, potentially contributing four to seven percent to the country’s GDP.
Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, echoed the importance of the sports sector in the state’s economic development, applauding the federal government’s shared vision with Governor Mbah’s administration.
In response, Governor Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, affirmed the state’s commitment to leading the nation’s efforts in sports and youth development.
He emphasized the role of sports in achieving the state’s growth targets and called for a shift in perception, advocating for sports to be recognized as a business rather than mere leisure and recreation.
He encouraged increased collaboration between the government and the private sector to expand opportunities in sports and youth development, positioning Enugu as a model for transforming the sports landscape in the country.
Report by Chibuike Ezekwesili
News Editor: Okuh Ikeme
Published by, Okuh Ikeme
