Sports Minister Okays National Sports Industry Bill Implementation

PRESS RELEASE

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has announced the Federal Government of Nigeria’s approval of the National Sports Industry Bill (NSIP) for comprehensive implementation, as part of the renewed vision under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Senator Enoh emphasized that the current government is dedicated to ushering in positive transformations across various sectors, with a particular focus on elevating the status of sports.

The NSIP, initially endorsed during the previous administration, has now been prioritized for execution in the present government to advance the development of sports.

“The National Sports Industry Policy, as sanctioned by the previous administration, has gained the support of the current government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the Minister stated. “The central tenet of this policy is to promote sports as a thriving industry, transcending its role as mere recreation.”

He elaborated on the collaborative efforts made during the previous administration, including the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee comprising the Ministries of Sports, Finance, and Federal Inland Revenue Service. This committee was tasked with formulating a series of incentives designed to secure government approval. These incentives are aimed at bolstering private sector investment and backing for sports in Nigeria.

Senator Enoh underscored the importance of redirecting sports financing towards private sector involvement, aligning with global practices.

“The Federal Ministry of Sports Development’s strategic vision includes fostering private sector engagement with sports. We aspire to cultivate trust and confidence within the private sector, ensuring that the ministry’s competitions and initiatives garner substantial support and endorsement,” he emphasized.

He reiterated the imperative need to restore the era when the private sector played an important role in the development of sports, recognizing it as a vital catalyst for progress in the sports industry.