Segun Solanke, the President and Founder of Provazios Sports Academy, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s sports industry.
With a passion for youth development and a deep understanding of the sports ecosystem, Solanke has been vocal about the challenges and opportunities in building a robust sports system in Nigeria.
His insights provide a roadmap for stakeholders looking to create a sustainable and effective sports framework in the country.
The Importance of Grassroots Development
According to Solanke, the foundation of any successful sports system lies in grassroots development. He emphasizes the need for early identification and nurturing of talent across various sports disciplines.
In Nigeria, where football dominates the sports landscape, there is a tendency to overlook other sports. Solanke advocates for a more inclusive approach that encourages participation in a diverse range of sports from a young age.
Provazios Sports Academy, under Solanke’s leadership, has been at the forefront of this initiative. The academy focuses on identifying young talents, providing them with the necessary training, and exposing them to competitive environments. Solanke believes that this grassroots approach is essential for building a pipeline of talent that can eventually compete at national and international levels.
Infrastructure and Investment
One of the significant challenges Nigeria faces in developing a working sports system is the lack of infrastructure. Solanke points out that many talented athletes do not have access to basic facilities such as standard training grounds, equipment, and coaching. He calls for increased investment in sports infrastructure, both from the government and the private sector.
Solanke also highlights the role of corporate sponsorship in sports development. He suggests that companies should see sports sponsorship not just as a marketing tool but as a social responsibility. By investing in sports, they contribute to the overall development of the youth and help create a healthier society.
Education and Sports Integration
For Solanke, education and sports should go hand in hand. He believes that student-athletes should be provided with a balanced environment where they can excel both academically and in sports. This integration is vital for the holistic development of young people. Solanke’s Provazios Sports Academy has implemented programs that ensure athletes receive quality education while pursuing their sports careers.
This approach, he argues, helps in producing well-rounded individuals who are not only skilled in their respective sports but also equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in other areas of life. Solanke calls on educational institutions across Nigeria to adopt similar models to encourage more students to participate in sports without compromising their academics.
Policy and Governance
Solanke also speaks on the need for sound policy and governance in the sports sector. He points out that a lack of clear policies and the inconsistency in their implementation has hampered the growth of sports in Nigeria. To address this, Solanke suggests the establishment of a national sports policy that outlines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including government agencies, sports federations, and private entities.
Moreover, he advocates for the creation of a regulatory body that will oversee the implementation of this policy, ensuring that all parties are held accountable. Solanke believes that with proper governance and a clear strategic direction, Nigeria can build a sports system that not only produces elite athletes but also contributes to national development.
Conclusion
Segun Solanke’s vision for a working sports system in Nigeria is rooted in grassroots development, infrastructure investment, education integration, and sound governance. As the President and Founder of Provazios Sports Academy, he has demonstrated that with the right approach, it is possible to nurture young talents and create a thriving sports ecosystem.
For Nigeria to realize its full potential in sports, it must embrace these principles and commit to building a sustainable system that supports athletes from the grassroots to the global stage.
