Former Anambra State Governor and NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for greater investment in sports development, describing sport as a potential vehicle for youth development, employment and social transformation in Nigeria.

Obi made the remarks after attending the Nigeria Premier Football League fixture between Ikorodu City and Enugu Rangers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on Sunday.

He attended the match alongside Ladipo Johnson, the NDC candidate for Lagos Central Senatorial District, and Aisha Jimoh, the party’s candidate for Lagos Island Constituency II in the House of Representatives.

Ikorodu City secured a 2-0 victory over defending champions Rangers, with Aderemi Adeoye opening the scoring in the eighth minute before Ikechukwu Junior doubled the advantage in the 63rd minute.  

Reflecting on the match, Obi said the experience prompted him to consider the wider possibilities of sport and the role it can play beyond competition and entertainment.

He pointed to countries such as Brazil and Jamaica as examples of nations that have used sport as a means of engaging young people, combating crime and creating economic opportunities.

“It pained me to see how poorly we are developing sports in Nigeria,” Obi said, adding that the 10,000-capacity stadium appeared to have fewer than 2,000 spectators during the match.

The Mobolaji Johnson Arena, formerly known as Onikan Stadium, has a listed capacity of about 10,000 and serves as a home venue for several Lagos football clubs, including Ikorodu City.  

Obi argued that Nigeria possesses abundant sporting talent but requires greater vision and commitment to convert that talent into sustainable opportunities for young people.

“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,” he said.

According to the former governor, a properly developed sports sector can contribute to youth empowerment, job creation and broader social development.

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

His comments came as the 2026/27 NPFL season continues, with Ikorodu City recording a notable victory over reigning champions Rangers in front of supporters at the Lagos venue.