Ilorin, January 22, 2025 – At the Sports Summit organized by the director of the Sports Student Union Government of Kwara State Polytechnic, Olaide Ahli, President of the Kwara Development Group and a leading advocate for sports development, called for the establishment of a Sports Department at the institution.
As one of the keynote speakers, Ahli spoke on the theme “Sports as a Catalyst for Socioeconomic Development” and emphasized the transformative power of sports, not only for individuals but also for communities and institutions. He highlighted how sports has changed lives, citing examples of notable Kwarans who have excelled through sports, including:
Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, the Executive Chairman of Kwara State Sports Commission; Mallam Bako, Director of Sports; Hammed Adio, former director of sports;
Professor Leah Dominic, former director of Sports University of Ilorin; Taiwo Awoniyi, Nigerian international footballer;
Halimatu Ayinde, Nigerian women’s footballer, and global sports icon; Mariam Arinola, Nigeria’s Para-Badminton Paralympic medalist.
“These individuals are living proof that sports is a vehicle for success and societal change,” Ahli said. “Sports has empowered them, brought global recognition, and positioned Kwara State on the global map.”
Benefits of Sports to Kwara State Polytechnic
Ahli outlined the numerous benefits that sports could bring to Kwara State Polytechnic, emphasizing its potential to combat social vices and foster growth. The benefits include:
Combatting Antisocial Behavior: Sports provides students with a productive outlet, reducing engagement in vices such as drug abuse, cultism, and other criminal activities.
Job Creation: Sports activities can create jobs for coaches, trainers, event organizers, and support staff within the institution.
Revenue Generation: Hosting sports tournaments and events can generate significant revenue for the polytechnic through sponsorships, ticket sales, and merchandising.
Human Capital Investment: Sports develop discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience, equipping students with skills that go beyond the field of play.
Enhanced Institutional Reputation: Success in sports can attract national and international recognition for Kwara Polytechnic.
Youth Engagement and Empowerment: Sports activities provide students with opportunities to discover and harness their talents.
Promotion of Physical and Mental Wellbeing: Regular participation in sports improves health, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of belonging.
Tourism and Infrastructure Development: Hosting sports events could attract visitors to Ilorin, spurring local tourism and driving infrastructural development.
Social Inclusion and Gender Equality: Sports create opportunities for both male and female students, fostering inclusion and diversity.
Strategies for Transforming Kwara Polytechnic Through Sports
Ahli further proposed strategies to elevate sports activities at Kwara State Polytechnic, including the establishment of a Sports Department offering professional courses, upgrading sports infrastructure, and creating programs to identify and nurture talent.
He commended the leadership of the Rector, Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, for his remarkable achievements, describing him as the best Rector in the history of Kwara State Polytechnic. Ahli noted that if the management under Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed implements the suggested strategies, it will complement his existing accomplishments and solidify his legacy as a visionary leader.
“Dr. Muhammed’s administration has already set a high standard for academic excellence and institutional development. Incorporating these strategies will elevate Kwara Polytechnic’s standing further, making it a model for sports and academic synergy in Nigeria,” Ahli remarked.
He concluded by urging the institution to embrace sports as a transformative tool, stating, “Sports is not just an activity; it is a platform for empowerment, unity, and growth. Kwara Polytechnic has the potential to become a hub for sports excellence in Nigeria.”
The event, held at the polytechnic’s main campus, drew students, faculty, and sports enthusiasts, all inspired by Ahli’s vision for a sports-driven future.
“Long live Kwara State Polytechnic. Long Live Kwara State. Long live sports. Long live Nigeria,” Ahli concluded, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of purpose and hope for the future of sports in the institution.
