The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a Sport Infrastructure Development Law, a landmark policy aimed at creating a sustainable financing framework for the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of sporting facilities across Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the approval in a speech delivered on his behalf by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani at the grand finale of the second Renewed Hope West African Horse Racing Derby in Kaduna.
According to the President, the proposed law is designed to end the longstanding dependence of sports infrastructure development on annual budgetary allocations by attracting long-term investments and greater private sector participation.
“Our administration has approved the establishment of a Sport Infrastructure Development Law, a landmark financing mechanism designed to mobilise sustainable long-term investment for the construction, rehabilitation, modernisation, and maintenance of sporting facilities across the country,” Tinubu said.
He added: “Through this initiative, the administration seeks to reduce the historic dependence of sport capital development on annual budgetary allocation, and create a sustainable framework through which modern sporting facilities can be delivered, managed, and maintained.”
The President said the initiative forms part of the Renewed Hope agenda to reposition sports as a viable economic sector capable of attracting investment, creating jobs and promoting youth development.
Tinubu noted that the National Sports Commission (NSC) is already co-ordinating the rehabilitation, upgrading and construction of sporting facilities nationwide, citing the ongoing reconstruction of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna and the revamping of the Zaria Horse Racing and Polo Club as examples of the government’s commitment.
He also disclosed that the Federal Government has approved reforms to strengthen sports financing, including a more predictable funding arrangement, authorisation for the NSC to operate commercial accounts, and expanded opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, concessions and other private sector investments.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming Nigerian sports into a sustainable industry that supports athletes, attracts investors and contributes meaningfully to national economic growth.