Presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has decried the poor patronage and development of sports in Nigeria, saying the country is wasting a major opportunity to engage its youths and create jobs.

Obi raised the concern after watching the Nigeria Premier Football League encounter between Enugu Rangers and Ikorodu City at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos.

The former Anambra State governor attended the match with the NDC candidate for Lagos Central Senatorial District, Ladipo Johnson, and the party’s House of Representatives candidate for Lagos Island Constituency II, Aisha Jimoh.

Obi said he was struck by the poor turnout at the match, noting that the stadium, which could accommodate about 10,000 spectators, had fewer than 2,000 people.

For Obi, the sparse crowd was symptomatic of a bigger problem: Nigeria has the sporting talent but has yet to build the structures and opportunities capable of turning that talent into livelihoods.

He pointed to Brazil and Jamaica as examples of countries that have used sports to engage young people, combat crime and create opportunities.

“Nigeria has no shortage of sporting talent. What we lack is the vision and commitment to turn that talent into opportunities for our young people,” Obi said.

He argued that sports should not be treated merely as entertainment, saying the sector could contribute significantly to youth development, employment and social transformation if properly developed.

“Sport is not merely entertainment; properly developed, it can be a powerful tool for youth development, employment, and social transformation,” he added.

Obi concluded with his campaign slogan, saying, “A new Nigeria is POssible.”