The Federal Government has announced a new reform aimed at integrating sports into the country’s education system.
Education Minister Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa unveiled the initiative in Abuja at the inauguration of a 20-member National Sports–Education Review Committee. He said the programme would focus on nurturing talent from the grassroots to elite levels, citing Brazil and Argentina as models.
Dr Alausa noted that while millions of young Nigerians participate in sports betting, the country lacks a sustainable sports economy. He said the government plans to establish a Sports Development Fund to support athletes, upgrade infrastructure and standardise curricula.
The committee will review accredited sports-related programmes across universities, polytechnics and colleges of education. It will examine course content, teaching methods and the inclusion of globally relevant subjects.
As part of the reform, Sports Centres of Excellence will be created in six universities, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Additional centres will be set up in Offa and Okene, with funding allocated in the 2025 budget.
Stakeholders at the event welcomed the initiative, describing it as a step towards building a stronger sports economy and developing world-class athletes.
