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The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has announced plans to reduce the number of participants in the annual National Sports Festival from the usual 15,000 athletes to 7,000 in an effort to lower costs.
He mentioned that the number of officials from participating states will also be decreased to further save expenses.
The DG addressed journalists in Calabar on Thursday as the week-long National Council on Sports reaches its conclusion.
Additionally, he revealed that the reductions in the size of contingents and officials will also apply to other youth and intermediate games in the future.
“Our goal is to minimize the funding for the National Sports Festival to the point where even the least affluent states can host the Festival and provide opportunities for their youth,” he stated.
Olopade emphasized the desire to establish a sports system that will be production-driven rather than consumption-driven within the next four to five years. “This is our objective,” he asserted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for reducing the number of athletes in the National Sports Festival?
The reduction aims to cut costs associated with staging the festival, making it more financially feasible for all states to participate.
Will the number of officials also be reduced?
Yes, the number of officials from participating states will also be pruned to save costs.
How will these changes affect future youth and intermediate games?
The same reductions in contingents and officials will apply to future youth and intermediate games, aiming for a more sustainable approach.
What is the long-term vision for the sports system?
The vision is to create a sports system that is production-driven rather than consumption-driven within the next four to five years.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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