Abuja: Sen. Ned Nwoko, Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria, Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta, has called for greater collaboration between government institutions and private stakeholders to build a sustainable, competitive football structure in the country. Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District and serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports and Youth Development, emphasized this need during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nwoko pointed out that stronger private sector participation is essential for the growth of football in the country. He highlighted that the lack of strong private sector investment and inadequate funding are major obstacles to the development of football nationwide. Nwoko stressed the potential of Nigerian investors to transform football into a thriving industry with significant economic and social benefits.
He urged Nigerian billionaires and corporate investors to take a more active role in funding f
ootball clubs, noting that most challenges facing the football ecosystem are linked to funding issues. Nwoko remarked that the government alone cannot address all these challenges and pointed out that successful football clubs worldwide are often driven by private investment, a model Nigeria should emulate.
The senator further explained that the limited number of professionally run clubs has curtailed opportunities for players, coaches, and referees to gain the exposure necessary for international competitiveness. He concluded by stating that increasing the number of clubs will enhance opportunities for engagement, professional development, and international qualification, but without adequate investment, these opportunities will remain restricted.