Nigeria's sports industry can drive over 50% of GDP, says official accepting SWAN role

Hulayat Omidiran, Executive Chairman of Nigeria's Federal Character Commission (FCC), believes the nation's sports industry holds the potential to significantly boost its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), potentially contributing over 50 percent. She articulated this vision during a courtesy visit from the National Executive Committee of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to the FCC headquarters in Abuja.

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Sports is more than entertainment; it keeps communities together, strengthens families, and, if properly harnessed, can contribute more than 50 per cent of a nation’s GDP. Nigeria is not there yet, but this administration is genuinely committed to unlocking the immense benefits of a vibrant sporting ecosystem.

Omidiran, a former member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Board and the FIFA Women's Football Committee, described sports as a potent force for economic advancement, empowering youth, and fostering national unity. "Sports is more than entertainment; it keeps communities together, strengthens families, and, if properly harnessed, can contribute more than 50 percent of a nation’s GDP," she stated, acknowledging that Nigeria has not yet reached this potential but expressing commitment from the current administration to unlock the benefits of a robust sporting ecosystem.

The visit also marked Omidiran's formal acceptance of her appointment as SWAN's first National Matron. She embraced the honor as a privilege and pledged her active support, vowing not to be a "silent matron." The FCC, she assured, will stand with SWAN, and she will personally support the association's initiatives.

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I accepted immediately because it is a great honour. I will not be a silent matron. When I am with you, you will know I am with you. The Federal Character Commission will stand with SWAN, and I will support your programmes in every way possible.

SWAN President Isaiah Benjamin lauded Omidiran's leadership at the FCC, highlighting her institutional reforms, transparency, and commitment to equity. He also recognized her contributions to sports administration, particularly in promoting women's football. Benjamin noted that SWAN's decision to appoint Omidiran as its first National Matron was a direct acknowledgment of her dedication to sports development, public service, and national integration. Omidiran is slated to be formally recognized at SWAN's National Triennial Congress in August, where new national officers will be elected and discussions on the future of sports journalism in Nigeria will take place.

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You have consistently demonstrated that sports are not merely about competition but a powerful instrument for leadership, youth empowerment, social inclusion and national development. Your remarkable journey continues to inspire generations of sports administrators, journalists and young Nigerians.