In an unprecedented move, President Bola Tinubu has approved a historic N94.9 billion budget for the sports sector for 2025, signaling his administration's commitment to revitalizing sports in Nigeria. This allocation represents a significant leap from the N31.24 billion budgeted in the previous fiscal year. However, a detailed breakdown of the expenditure has raised eyebrows, with questions about the prioritization of funds and the accountability of such a substantial allocation.
Key Allocations and Concerns
A notable portion of the budget is directed toward administrative and operational expenses, rather than directly promoting sporting activities or infrastructure. Among the allocations, the following stand out:
- Vehicle Purchases and Maintenance:
- N3.65 billion has been earmarked for the purchase of vehicles.
- Additional expenses include N130 million for vehicle maintenance and N600 million for motor-vehicle fuel costs.
- Fueling and Lubricants:
- A staggering N885.3 million is allocated for oil, lubricants, and fueling of plants and generators.
- Refreshments and Honorariums:
- N100 million will go toward refreshments and meals.
- N350 million is set aside for honorarium and sitting allowances.
- Other Administrative Costs:
- N500 million for welfare packages.
- N120 million for publicity and advertisements.
- N140 million for legal services.
Infrastructure and Rehabilitation
Despite concerns over administrative expenses, substantial funds are also allocated for infrastructure development:
- N23.8 billion for the provision of office buildings, sporting facilities, and infrastructure.
- N18.59 billion is designated for the rehabilitation and repair of fixed assets.
Support for Key Institutions
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is allocated N2.25 billion, while the National Institute for Sports (NIS) will receive N1.88 billion. These funds are expected to bolster operations and enhance the institutions’ contributions to Nigeria’s sporting success.
Controversies in Budget Preparation
One contentious aspect of the budget is that it was reportedly prepared under the now-defunct Ministry of Sports Development, which was scrapped two months ago. Questions are being raised about the relevance and accuracy of such a document in its current form. Elements of the budget appear to have been integrated into the National Sports Commission (NSC), further complicating the allocation process.
Public Reaction
Sports analysts and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the budget. While many applaud the significant increase in funding, others have criticized the disproportionate allocation to non-sporting activities. Advocates have called for increased transparency and a reallocation of funds toward grassroots development, talent scouting, and international competitions.
The Road Ahead
President Tinubu’s administration has positioned this budget as a cornerstone of its plan to elevate Nigeria’s sports sector. However, the onus is on the National Assembly and relevant agencies to ensure that the funds are used judiciously and effectively to contribute to the growth and success of Nigerian sports.
Oluwayemi Omolagba