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By Olayinka Elebute
Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and FIFA Council Member Amaju Pinnick has called on the government to improve on our maintenance culture,
Pinnick said these when he was guest lecturer at the Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan, speaking on ‘The Challenges of Sports Infrastructure and Maintenance in Nigeria’.
While offering a detailed overview of Nigeria’s sports infrastructure, emphasising the significance of hosting major competitions to promote infrastructure development in the country.
Our problem is not facilities but our poor maintenance attitude towards the facility we build to host tournament citing Mexico as a country that has used one facility to host several FIFA World Cup in 1970, 1986 and the facility will still be used to host a junior FIFA tournament
While he urged the nation for innovative approaches and a renewed commitment to maintaining sports infrastructure
Speaking further, “ Our poor sports infrastructure limits talent development reduces competitiveness, discourages athletes, and impedes a nation’s ability to host events, ultimately impacting national pride and identity,” Pinnick stated
In his opening address, Vice Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale reiterated the university’s commitment to fostering a love for sports and promoting national development.
He emphasized the crucial role of sports in shaping individuals and communities while praising Pinnick for his international advocacy for Nigerian sports.
Professor Olufemi Adegbesan, Dean of the Faculty of Education, commended Pinnick for his engaging and thought-provoking lecture on infrastructural development in Nigeria.
It was a fun filled atmosphere where sports meets academics as the big wigs in football were present, newly appointed Chairman of Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, former vice president of NFF Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi, board member of NFF Aisha Falode, President General of Nigeria Supporters club Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, Honorable Commissioner for Sports in Oyo state, Hon. Wosilat Adegoke,
Oyo state FA Chairman HRM Oba James Odeniran, the Alakinyele of Akinyele, led the delegate from the home front, with Chairman of 3SC Hon. Akoro, and former secretary of NFF Dr. Bolaji Ojo-Oba
While from Academic side are Vice Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale, Professor Olufemi Adegbesan Dean of the Faculty of Education to witness the annual lecture.
