Former sports minister suggests increased funding for sports development in Nigeria.

By correspondent in Minna.

Former Minister of Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung,has suggested that more funds should be channelled into sports development instead of the billions of Naira spent as security votes without much to show in terms of securing the lives and properties of Nigerians.
He challenged politicians and those in leadership positions have to learn how to build bridges of understanding amongst Nigerians,taking a cue from the annual Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) which has been serving as a unifying factor for all civil servants.
The former Minister,who spoke at the opening ceremony for the 42nd edition of FEPSGA taking place at the Bahago Sports Complex in Minna, Niger state, said he was very proud of the annual sporting fiesta,adding that it had brought about new relief in the sector.
Dalung said it is regrettable that on annual basis, security votes at the national level, states and local government levels ran into several billions of naira, adding that, “If substantial sum is invested in sports, Nigeria would have tackled at least, 50 per cent of its insecurity”.
The fastest way to check insecurity is to invest more in the promotion of sports, Dalung said, adding that by so doing, jobs are created for many unemployed youths and they make career from sports and that keep them busy and away from any form of crime.
“Sports is no longer for leisure but a money spinning venture, Dalung said, adding that sports and women are among the riches globally, including Nigerians who have won medals and are making millions through their sporting exploits at local and international levels.
 Meanwhile, the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Esan, has challenged participants at the FEPSGA to be good ambassadors of the civil service by exhibiting highest level of discipline throughout the duration of the event.
“In any contest, winners and losers must emerge. Nobody is a complete loser, weather you won medals or not, the experience you have gained participating in the 42nd edition of FEPSGA matters”, the Head of Service said.
 Our correspondent reports that the annual event, had the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh,represented by a Director in the ministry, Dr. Patrick Okoye.
Highlights of the 42nd edition of the sporting fiesta which was declared open by the Governor of Niger state, Hon. Mohammed Umar Bago, include match past which saw the Ministry of Works winning the Gold medal.
Ministry of Raw materials came 2nd while Ministry of Interior came 3rd.  
Edited by Dada Ahmed.