A new era for Nigerian sports commenced on Saturday as Abuja hosted the inaugural Sports Meet Nigeria Conference at the prestigious Grand Cubana Hotel, Jabi.
This high-profile professional gathering convened a diverse array of stakeholders from across the Nigerian sports sector. The conference was designed to promote collaboration and networking among sports business professionals, investors, administrators, marketers, broadcasters, and media and public relations experts.
By bringing together this wide range of expertise, the Sports Meet Nigeria Conference seeks to build a more collaborative, innovative, and ultimately successful sports ecosystem within the country. The theme of the event was ‘Shaping the Future of Sports: Collaboration, Innovation and Impact’.
The conference was organised by veteran sports business advisor, FIFA Players’ and Match Agent, boxing promoter and matchmaker, Akeola Lukumanu Ayinde, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of ESEM-GROUP.
Speaking at the event, Ayinde stated:
“The Sports Meet Nigeria platform is dedicated to celebrating sports, fostering talent, and building meaningful collaborations. I am honoured to introduce the Elite Sports Development Foundation, a platform created to nurture and support young athletes, provide mentorship, and create sustainable opportunities in sports.”
He further remarked:
“I believe that sport is not merely about competition but about discipline, character, and national pride. Through this foundation, we aim to lay the groundwork for future champions, ensuring that talent is discovered, nurtured, and celebrated. Today also marks the official launch of my book, Beyond the Games.”
Introducing his book, Ayinde added:
“It explores the broader impact of sports beyond the playing field, reflecting my experiences, lessons, and visions for the future of sports in Africa. I hope it serves as an inspiration and guide for athletes, coaches, and all who are passionate about the power of sports.”
“This event is more than just a gathering; it is a call to action — an opportunity for us to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of sports in Nigeria. I encourage everyone present to engage fully, share ideas, and be part of this new chapter.”
The Sports Meet Nigeria Conference thus marks a significant step towards building a more cohesive, innovative, and thriving sports industry in Nigeria.
With a broad spectrum of participants, the discussions were rich and insightful, shaping key perspectives on the future of sports development in the country.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Salihu Abubakar, who delivered remarks on the Commission’s renewed focus on treating sports as a business enterprise.
“This event is of great importance given the new direction of the National Sports Commission,” Abubakar noted.
“We are aware that the Federal Government dissolved the Ministry of Sports for various reasons and reinstated the National Sports Commission. Today’s event aligns with the President’s mandate: ‘Change sports, reset sports, refocus sports, and relaunch it as a business.’ We are, therefore, pleased that the focus here today is on sports business.”
Commending the organiser’s efforts, Abubakar continued:
“I am particularly impressed by the convener’s enthusiasm. During our meeting, he shared his book with me, and I found many insightful topics that can greatly assist Nigerian sports development. I highly recommend the book to every sports organisation.”
The presence of leading figures from across Nigeria’s sports ecosystem underscored the significance of the inaugural conference, which provided a vital platform for stakeholders to connect, share expertise, and jointly chart a course towards a more professional and dynamic sports industry.
The conference, long anticipated by many in the sector, featured a day of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, all aimed at addressing critical issues and unlocking Nigeria’s vast sporting potential.
The energy and optimism that pervaded the conference reflected the growing momentum behind the country’s sporting ambitions. The connections made and ideas exchanged are expected to resonate for years to come, helping to drive positive change and unlock Nigeria’s sporting potential on both national and international stages.
At the event, Beyond the Games: Unveiling the Potential of Sports in Nigeria was officially launched. Commenting on the book, Halima Imam highlighted key themes.
“The book raises awareness about the legal protections and responsibilities of athletes. Talented individuals must be safeguarded by the law,” she said.
“It also offers visionary insights into what must be done to realise Nigeria’s full potential in the sports sector. If Nigeria truly harnesses the power of sports, it can unlock massive economic, social, and diplomatic opportunities. Beyond the Games is not just a book — it is a blueprint for anyone committed to the advancement of sports in Africa.”
Notable attendees included the Assistant Director (Sports Tourism) of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Tunde Adeleke; CEO of Winning Stars Sports Academy, Modupeola Abigel; and Founder of the CEO Foundation, Dr Grace Obar, amongst others.
The Sports Meet Nigeria Conference thus represents a major stride towards creating a more collaborative, professionalised, and dynamic sports industry in Nigeria. By amplifying its message and fostering a nationwide conversation, it aims to transform the future of sports in the country.
