By: Monday Nas Ozoya 

Sports in Nigeria have always been more than just a means of recreation. They serve as a unifying force in a country characterised by diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and languages. However, the influence of politics on Nigerian sports cannot be overlooked. Politics significantly impacts Nigeria's sports development, governance, funding, and talent progression, creating opportunities and challenges.

Political Influence on Sports Governance
At the heart of Nigerian sports lies its governance, which is deeply intertwined with politics. Key leadership positions in national sports federations, such as the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) or the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), often witness significant political interference. Political appointments or elections into these roles frequently prioritise loyalty over merit, leading to inefficiencies in administration. This has sometimes resulted in mismanagement of funds, inadequate preparation for international competitions, and infighting within sports bodies.
Moreover, political interference often delays critical decision-making. For instance, disagreements between government officials and sports administrators have sometimes led to Nigeria's suspension from international competitions by global bodies like FIFA, which frown upon political involvement in sports governance.

From the Ministry of Sports to the National Sports Commission
One of the most significant examples of politics shaping Nigerian sports governance was the transition from the Ministry of Sports to the National Sports Commission (NSC). This transition, driven by political considerations, aimed to professionalise sports management and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks. The NSC was established to act as an autonomous body, free from the rigid structures of the traditional civil service, hoping to foster efficiency and innovation in sports administration.
However, political dynamics have continued to influence the effectiveness of the NSC. Leadership appointments within the commission often reflect political affiliations and the lack of continuity between successive governments has hindered long-term planning. While the creation of the NSC marked a step towards modernising Nigerian sports governance, its potential has been hampered by the same political challenges that plagued its predecessor.

Funding and Resource Allocation
Politics also plays a pivotal role in the funding of sports. While sports are seen as a vehicle for national pride and diplomacy, the allocation of resources often reflects political agendas. Significant events like the Olympics or the FIFA World Cup receive substantial government backing as they offer opportunities for global recognition. However, grassroots sports development—essential for nurturing future talent—is frequently underfunded due to a lack of immediate political gains.
State governments, too, use sports as a tool for political influence. Hosting national sports festivals, establishing sports academies, or sponsoring local teams often serve as strategies to garner public support. While these initiatives can promote sports development, they sometimes lack continuity, as subsequent administrations may abandon projects initiated by their predecessors.

Talent Development and Youth Engagement
The intersection of politics and sports has significant implications for talent development. Youth-focused sports programs are frequently employed as political tools to garner goodwill from young voters. While these initiatives can provide platforms for budding athletes, their long-term effectiveness is often undermined by poor execution and insufficient follow-through.
Furthermore, favouritism and nepotism—offshoots of political interference—often derail the careers of talented athletes. In many cases, selections for national teams or scholarships to train abroad are influenced by connections rather than merit. This disillusionment forces many promising athletes to seek opportunities in foreign countries, leading to a brain drain in Nigerian sports.

The Role of International Politics
Nigeria’s engagement in international sports is not immune to the dynamics of global politics. Sporting events are sometimes platforms for showcasing political ideologies or advancing diplomatic relationships. For instance, Nigeria’s participation in global tournaments often fosters national unity and enhances the country's international image. However, geopolitical tensions and conflicts—such as boycotts of events for political reasons—can hinder athletes' opportunities and disrupt international collaboration.

Positive Impacts of Politics on Sports
Despite the challenges, politics has also contributed positively to Nigerian sports. Government initiatives, such as the National Youth Sports Festival, have been instrumental in discovering and nurturing talent. Political support has also enabled Nigeria’s participation in major international events, where athletes have brought home medals and elevated the country’s standing in global sports.
Moreover, political figures have occasionally championed reforms in sports administration, leading to improved transparency and accountability. Adopting policies to boost investment in sports infrastructure and welfare has created opportunities for athletes and fans.

The Way Forward
To mitigate politics' negative impact on Nigerian sports, prioritising professionalism and meritocracy in sports administration is essential. Establishing autonomous sports governing bodies free from excessive political interference is crucial. Increased funding for grassroots development and consistent policies that transcend political tenures can ensure sustainable growth.
Fostering public-private partnerships can alleviate governments' financial burden while promoting innovation and efficiency in sports management. Finally, implementing anti-corruption measures and holding officials accountable for mismanagement can restore confidence in Nigerian sports.

Conclusion
Politics and sports in Nigeria are deeply intertwined, with both positive and negative ramifications. While political influence has brought visibility and resources to Nigerian sports, it has also led to inefficiencies, favouritism, and mismanagement. A deliberate effort to depoliticise sports governance and prioritise merit-based systems can unlock the full potential of Nigerian athletes and elevate the nation’s sports to greater heights. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can harness the power of sports to unite its people, inspire its youth, and achieve global acclaim.