In a thought-provoking segment on Music and Sports Special this morning on Brila FM, Dr. Larry Izamoje delved into the pressing issues hindering the growth of sports in Nigeria.
Using the metaphor “Flowers won’t grow in a garden of stones,” Dr. Izamoje urged stakeholders to identify and remove the obstacles that have long stifled Nigeria’s athletic potential.
Dr. Izamoje’s discussion highlighted the concerns of various sports personalities who provided insights into the problems facing Nigerian sports.
Ama-Ebi Stow Ebikpolade, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association, lamented the lack of preparation that led to the underwhelming performance of Nigerian table tennis athletes in the Olympics. He called for a strategic overhaul, emphasizing the need for foreign coaches and improved facilities to elevate the sport.
Rena Wakama, head coach of the D’Tigress, stressed the importance of investing in local talent and providing the necessary support to ensure success on the global stage. She emphasized that preparation is key to achieving the desired results in international competitions.
Vanseki Ambrose, a former Olympic silver medalist, expressed his disappointment at Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the men’s football event at the Olympics. He warned that without prioritizing preparation, Nigeria risks continued failures in major tournaments. Ambrose also criticized the poor treatment of ex-internationals, calling for a change in attitude towards the nation’s football heroes.
Godwin Okpara, a former Nigeria international, criticized the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for delaying the appointment of a head coach for the Super Eagles. He questioned whether the team’s handlers still believed in the Super Eagles’ ability to qualify for upcoming competitions.
Edwin Okon, former coach of the Super Falcons, lamented the lack of technical play by the women’s national team during the Olympics. Despite having a roster filled with professional players, the team underperformed, and Okon emphasized the need for better tactical preparation to compete at the highest levels.
Theresa Mac Dangosu, a former guard of the D’Tigress, criticized the team’s performance against the USA, noting that while the team showed aggression on defense, they lacked the same intensity on offense. She also pointed out that the Americans’ deeper bench and experience played a crucial role in their victory.
Olusola Oyedele, a Nigerian boxing promoter, highlighted the issues that plagued the Nigerian boxing team at the Paris Olympic Games. He pointed out that last-minute preparations led to poor performances and called for better education and support for athletes, citing the case of Cynthia Ogunsemilore, who was banned for failing a drug test due to lack of proper guidance.
Dr. Izamoje concluded with a powerful message: “We must know that flowers don’t grow in a garden with stones. We must collectively pick the stones to create a blooming garden. Enough of the tears; the pain must die. Let’s prepare a garden for Nigerian sports.”
His words resonated as a rallying cry for all stakeholders to come together and address the systemic issues plaguing Nigerian sports, ensuring a brighter future for the nation’s athletes.
