For individuals that follow Sports Federations elections, you will know that 2021 is a year we all should expect Kangaroo competitions across the length and breath of the country.
On 13th June 2017, various individuals from the 36 states including the FCT voted for leaders who will pilot the affairs of the respective National Sports Federations. The President, Vice President, Zonal Representatives excluding the Secretary Generals and Treasurers were given mandate to change the face of sports in Nigeria.
While some members of the National Sports Federations were making headway and meaningful impact into the association, others were folding their arms in anticipation of another election.
The moment the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports dissolve the various boards at the Federation level, we should expect candidates vying for elective positions to start coming up with competitions that will not last for a year.
In 2016, Nigeria witnessed over 200 grassroots competitions due to the ambition of various individuals. Immediately the election results were announced, few winners continued with their programs while others kept mute for three years.
Coming to the Zonal Representatives of most National Sports Federations, they sit in their comfort zones and organise zero grassroots or senior tournaments. They wait until their federations put up national championships before they come out to identify themselves as either Zonal Reps of Board members.
2021 should be a year for eligible voters in various sports federations to vote for individuals who have the love of the game at heart and not moneybags. Incumbent Presidents who have invested heavily in their federations should be kept in their offices via votes in order for them to continue on their current works.
Nigerians should expect another set of drama at this year’s elections because we witnessed violence in the elections of Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Nigeria Rugby Federation and Nigeria Judo Federation.
Permutations, aligning and realigning between various sports Councils/Commissions across the 36 states of the Federation will begin soonest.
