NESG Sees Grassroots Sports as Job Creation Driver

Ayomikun Elemikan

November 13, 2026
2 min read
NESG

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group NESG has called for greater investment in grassroots sports, describing the sector as a major opportunity for job creation, youth empowerment and economic growth.

The group made the call ahead of the National Grassroots Sports Development Summit 2026, scheduled for November 18 and 19 at the Presidential Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, NESG Head of Public Affairs and Public Policy, Seun Ojo, said Nigeria needed to recognise grassroots sports as an important part of its economic development agenda rather than focusing only on medals and trophies.

She said, “The enormous potential within the sector can only be unlocked through deliberate policies, sustainable infrastructure, stronger institutions and effective collaboration between government and private investors.”

The summit, convened by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Adeboye, with support from NESG, is themed “Creating a New Pathway for Sustainable Grassroots Sports Development”.

It will bring together government officials, sports administrators, private sector representatives, academics, coaches, athletes and development partners to discuss ways of strengthening sports development from community participation to elite competition.

Ojo said NESG would provide technical and content support, including stakeholder engagement and documentation of recommendations to guide future policy decisions.

The programme will feature keynote addresses, plenary sessions, investment discussions and engagements with young people and athletes.

Expected speakers include Nigeria Cricket Federation President, Uyi Akpata; former Nigeria Football Federation board member, Seyi Akinwunmi; and CAF Secretary-General, Samson Adamu.