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Nigeria Pushes for Universities to Launch Faculties of Sports Science—A New Era for Education & Athletics!

In a country where sports bring people together, ignite enthusiasm, and generate international champions, it is paradoxical that our universities regard sports as a secondary academic subject. The conventional method—offering physical and health education (PHE) within the faculty of education—is outdated. It prepares graduates for teaching roles in schools but fails to equip them for the expanding, multidisciplinary possibilities within the global sports industry.

It’s time for change. Nigerian universities should establish comprehensive faculties of sports science and human kinetics. This move is not merely an academic improvement; it is a necessary step for economic, developmental, and cultural advancement.

A courageous initiative from the Sports University of Nigeria

Situated in Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State, the Sports University of Nigeria has demonstrated foresight by creating a Faculty of Sports Science—a groundbreaking initiative in the nation. It provides degree programs that embody the true essence of modern sports: integrating science, technology, business, communication, and wellness.

This private institution is leading the way. However, to achieve substantial national impact, public universities must now accept the challenge and adopt this progressive model. Consider the potential influence if the University of Lagos, ABU Zaria, UNIBEN, or even state universities like Dennis Osadebay University embraced this approach.

Sports have evolved into a scientifically driven global industry.

Worldwide, sports transcend mere play and competition. They are now a scientifically informed, data-driven, and professionally managed domain. Universities in the UK, Australia, South Africa, and the US have developed advanced faculties that offer degrees in sport science and physiology, sport management and marketing, fitness and wellness, sport analytics and data science, sport communication and media, sportswear and equipment design, and e-sports and digital innovation.

In contrast, many Nigerian universities still offer PHE without state-of-the-art laboratories, innovation centers, or tailored career preparation for sports. We must adapt.

Genuine careers, substantial impact

Young Nigerians need practical programs that lead to employment opportunities. The Faculty of Sports Science would prime them for positions such as sport event managers and facility directors, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts and biomechanists, sportswear technologists and designers, wellness coaches and rehabilitation specialists, sports journalists and broadcasters, and sport tourism entrepreneurs.

The antiquated emphasis on lesson material and coaching in schools cannot satisfy contemporary needs. We require interdisciplinary, hands-on curricula that connect to actual economic sectors.

Aligning with national policy

In 2022, the federal government unveiled the National Sports Industry Policy, which identifies sports as a catalyst for economic development, youth involvement, health enhancement, and national cohesion. This policy can only thrive if our academic institutions become its training grounds.

We need Nigerian universities that cultivate sports researchers, certified professionals, sports tech innovators, trainers, and educators for the 21st century. Without an explicit faculty structure, achieving this level of influence remains unattainable.

Case study: Dennis Osadebay University can set a precedent

Delta State, recognized for its exceptional athletes and sporting achievements, can enhance its reputation by supporting institutions like Delta State University and Dennis Osadebay University in establishing a Faculty of Sports Science and Human Kinetics. This faculty could offer degree programs in sport science and technology, fitness and wellness studies, sportswear and equipment technology, sports management and event planning, sports communication and media, sport tourism and recreation, and physical and health education.

This initiative would grant the university both national significance and international attractiveness.

Conclusion: A call for change

The message is evident: sports encompass not only physical aspects but also intellectual, technological, and entrepreneurial dimensions. It is critical for Nigerian universities to acknowledge this fact and evolve by creating specialized faculties that align with contemporary global standards.

The Sports University of Nigeria has set the standard. Our public educational institutions must now expand on this foundation for greater impact. Let our universities cultivate not just athletes and physical education teachers, but also scientists, analysts, entrepreneurs, broadcasters, and innovators in the realm of sports.