Nigeria’s sports industry is set for a major overhaul as organisers officially launch the Big Sports Dialogue 1.0: Reshaping Nigeria’s Sports Ecosystem, a landmark conference aimed at transforming the nation’s sports sector into a powerhouse of economic growth, job creation, and national pride.
The event, scheduled for November 24, 2025, in Lagos, was unveiled by the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mr Osaze Ebueku, who described it as “the most consequential gathering of sports leaders, policymakers, investors, and media voices in Nigeria’s history.”
“On November 24, 2025, Lagos will host the most consequential gathering of sports leaders, policymakers, investors, and media voices in Nigeria’s history. Big Dialogue 1.0 is not just a conference, it’s a movement.
Backed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and RHINSE (Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy), we unite to transform sports into an engine for economic growth, job creation, and national pride,” Ebueku stated.
He emphasised the need to harness the country’s vast sporting potential, citing the minimal contribution of sports to the nation’s GDP.
“Nigeria’s sports potential is undeniable. From the roar of the Super Eagles to the triumphs of our athletes on the global stage, we have talent, passion, and resilience. Yet, our contribution to the GDP 0.33% in 2021, 0.31% in 2020, tells a story of untapped promise. But today, we break the cycle,” he said.
Among the key focus areas of the dialogue are policy reform, private-sector collaboration, athlete-centred development, and media amplification. Organisers say the conference will produce a National Sports Blueprint to address infrastructure gaps, funding models, and governance reforms.
Investors will also have the opportunity to engage innovators to unlock resources for grassroots sports development, while athlete welfare and post-career sustainability will be central to discussions.
High-profile speakers lined up for the dialogue include NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, former Nigeria Football Federation President Amaju Pinnick, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, and renowned journalist Rufai Oseni.
Other organisers present at the launch were Jerome Obuninta, sports journalist Sylvanus Ofekun, and ace sportscaster Aaron Akerejola.
According to the organisers, Big Sports Dialogue 1.0 will mark a turning point for the country’s sports ecosystem, setting the foundation for a sustainable and globally competitive sports economy.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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