The French institute(IFN), in partnership with GOSKATE, has proposed that the government invest in the skateboarding industry to enhance opportunities for Nigerian youth to represent the country in global events like the Olympics.

They highlighted that skating fosters qualities such as tenacity and perseverance, which are essential for achieving any objective. Furthermore, these experts emphasised that the government can play a crucial role in creating a supportive environment by ensuring safety and organising skating tournaments. Such initiatives could not only promote the sport but also help reduce youth unrest and its potential contribution to crime.

They explained that beyond sport, skating is connected to other art forms like photography, music, dance and the creative liberty and attraction that pulls the youthful demography together into a community.

They made this known at a recent event held at the French Institute in Wuse, Abuja, showcasing a brief documentary series on skating, followed by a dynamic panel discussion led by Chimdi Onyiuke. The panel featured passionate skaters, including Lukman Abdulrahman, Ogbogu Daniel, Sean Omoluabi, Oluwakemi Ladejobi, and Giles Omoluabi. This engaging forum offered both skaters and skating enthusiasts a valuable opportunity to share their experiences and ignite their passion for the sport.

In an interview with the Guardian, Margaux Lucas, the Cultural Programming Officer at the French Institute, highlighted her own involvement in skating. She emphasized that skating not only promotes freedom and artistic expression but is also a vital part of cultural identity.

Lucas announced that the French Institute is committed to projects that enhance sports, music, talent development, creativity, and diverse cultural expressions. She stated, “The French Institute is dedicated to hosting events such as exhibitions, film screenings, discussions, and intellectual exchanges to strengthen diplomatic ties.”

Lukman Abdulrahman, the founder of GOSKATE, took the opportunity to address the misconceptions surrounding skaters, particularly the inaccurate labeling of them as hooligans. He argued that these stereotypes are not only misleading but also detract from the true potential of skating. He pointed out that Nigeria could benefit by looking at the United States, which invests significantly in skateparks as a means to enrich its cultural and urban landscape while empowering its youth. He advocated for government support to enhance security and provide a platform for the growth of the skating sector.

GOSKATE’s Marketing and Community Manager, Oluwakemi Ladejobi, underscored the crucial importance of safety gear. She emphasized that communities dedicated to skating help prevent injuries by offering structured training for beginners, intermediates, and professionals. Ladejobi called on the government to allocate funds, organize regional or interstate tournaments, and explore the tourism potential of skating, which could greatly benefit Nigeria’s economy.

She concluded by stating, “Skating teaches essential life lessons such as perseverance, tenacity, discipline, and risk-taking, which are valuable in everyday life.” This collaborative effort could be a pivotal step toward embracing the sport and maximising its benefits for individuals and the community as a whole.