The Federal Government has unveiled a plan to establish eight Sports and Education Centres of Excellence across selected tertiary institutions.

The initiative aims to retain sporting talents, create jobs, and position sports as a major contributor to economic growth.

Known as the National Sports and Education Excellence Programme, the project was announced in Abuja by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, alongside the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko. It forms part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The programme is designed to combine quality education with elite sports training so that young athletes no longer have to choose between academics and sports.

The first phase will begin this year at the University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Federal College of Education Okene, and Babcock University.

Alausa said the centres will produce not only world-class athletes but also coaches, sports scientists, physiotherapists, administrators, and other professionals needed to grow the sports industry. He noted that the initiative would also help reduce youth involvement in social vices and promote national cohesion.

Officials added that the centres will offer internationally recognised programmes in sports science, coaching, sports medicine, technology, and management. Plans are also underway to extend talent identification to secondary schools and seek global accreditation for the academic programmes.

Photo credit: Vanguard News