The Ekiti State Government is steadily repositioning sports as both a developmental tool and a viable economic driver, with tangible results already emerging.
Speaking on the bilingual audience-participatory simulcast programme Ekiti Loni/Ekiti Today, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, Olusola Osetoba, highlighted the administration’s renewed commitment to the sector, noting that efforts are focused on improved athlete welfare, upgraded infrastructure, and increased participation across various sports.
She also noted that Ekiti athletes are gaining wider exposure, with some representing Nigeria at the Under-17 level and others competing in judo, football, basketball, table tennis, and lawn tennis.
Osetoba said that Ekiti has recorded encouraging progress on the national stage, including a notable performance at the Nigeria National League, where Ekiti United is currently placed third one the table while the female counterpart, Ekiti Queen are fourth on the ongoing Nigerian Women’s Football League, which reflects the state’s growing investment in athlete development, improved welfare, and strengthened sports infrastructure.
On infrastructure, Osetoba highlighted ongoing upgrades across the state, particularly at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti and the Ikole Stadium, noting that the facilities now boast a ready-to-use playing pitch, while the Ado Ekiti stadium has improved athlete accommodation and newly installed floodlights, enabling matches to be held at any time.
According to her, the facilities are structured to generate revenue through surrounding commercial spaces, adding that similar development is underway in Ijero, while a new stadium project is in progress in Ikere-Ekiti.
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She added that the ongoing 1,500 seating capacity indoor sports hall complex is another key component of the state’s sports development drive, complementing existing upgrades and expanding capacity for year-round sporting activities, noting that these facilities are designed not only for sporting activities but also as revenue-generating assets.
“Sports has become a good business,” Dr. Osetoba said, emphasizing that the state’s broader goal is to leverage sports for economic growth, job creation, youth development, infrastructure expansion, international recognition, improved public health, and tourism.
Looking ahead, she disclosed that Ekiti is working towards hosting major sporting festivals, with a strong focus on proper planning and adequate facilities.
“Before we open our doors to the world, we must ensure everything is in place, from infrastructure to standards and systems,” she said.
Lauding the support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for sports development, Dr. Osetoba described it as instrumental to the progress recorded so far, noting that the administration’s approach reflects a clear commitment to delivering measurable results.
She urged greater public participation in sports, especially among young people, describing it as a pathway to personal development, fitness, and national representation.
She also highlighted the state’s “Keep Fit” programme as an inclusive platform for people of all ages, including the elderly, to stay active and maintain good physical and mental health.
“As Ekiti continues to expand its sports framework, the goal is to build a sustainable system that supports athletes, generates revenue, and positions the state as a future destination for major sporting events,” she affirmed.