Inadequate infrastructure, funding hampering sports development in Yobe – Analyst
Mr Ahmed Kagana, a sports analyst mentioned insufficient funding, inadequate facilities, and a lack of proper equipment among the major challenges to grassroot development of sporting activities in Yobe.
Kagana, who is also the Vice President Sprot Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) North-East Zone said the state’s financial position in the country compounded the problems.
“Insufficient funding remains a major obstacle to grassroots sports development.
“Yobe State, being among the poorest states in Nigeria, struggles to allocate adequate funds for sports development initiatives.
“This results in infrastructural deficit, lack of resources to provide necessary facilities, equipment, training for coaches and athletes among others,” he said.
He pointed out a Clcultural barriers and religious beliefs as other impediments to sports development in the State.
“Some families consider sports a waste of time and prioritised education over physical activities.
“Additionally, religious and cultural beliefs restrict the participation of girls in sports,” he also said.
Kagana however noted that the present administration of Gov Mai Mala Buni was committed to improving sports infrastructure throughout the state.
He said several other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) were also complementing the government’s effort in promoting sports participation among the young talents in state.
The organizations according to him include United Nations Children Education Fund, UNICEF, Save the children, World Bank among others.
“They aimed at upgrading sporting facilities, addressing barriers preventing youth participation in sports and provide platforms for skill development,” he added.
