Nigerian stakeholders hail sports development book as vital blueprint

A new book by Dr. Emmanuel Edem Ikpeme, titled "Perspectives on Sports Development in Nigeria: Challenges and Ways Forward," has been hailed as a crucial blueprint for the nation's sports administration. Launched in Abuja, the publication received praise from prominent figures including Senator John Owan Enoh, National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Shehu Dikko, and former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke.

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Sports remains one of Nigeria’s greatest assets for youth empowerment, national unity and economic growth. This book is designed to encourage informed dialogue and practical action that will strengthen the sector for future generations.

Ikpeme, drawing on decades of experience, stated that the book offers practical solutions for governance, infrastructure, funding, and athlete welfare. "Sports remains one of Nigeria’s greatest assets for youth empowerment, national unity and economic growth," Ikpeme said. "This book is designed to encourage informed dialogue and practical action that will strengthen the sector for future generations."

Senator Enoh, Minister of State for Investment, described the book as a timely and important intellectual contribution, commending Ikpeme's clarity, experience, and intellectual discipline in examining the sector. Enoh also called for greater recognition of private investors and urged officials to implement deeper, institutionalized reforms, moving beyond emergency funding. He cited President Bola Tinubu's reforms, including the restored National Sports Commission and increased sports funding, as positive steps.

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Dr Ikpeme’s book is both timely and important because it examines the sector with clarity, with experience and with intellectual discipline. I can attest to his competence, humility, depth of knowledge and quiet commitment to the development of Nigerian sports.

Former Governor Imoke recalled his collaboration with Ikpeme during his tenure in Cross River State, highlighting successful hosting of national team matches. He emphasized that Ikpeme chose a policy-focused publication over a memoir, providing a guide for future administrators. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko also spoke at the event, acknowledging the book's significance.

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No game that Nigeria played in Cross River State during that period was ever lost, and from there we went on to win the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. Rather than write a memoir, Imoke said, Ikpeme had chosen a policy-focused publication that could guide future administrators.