Ganiyu Muftau
Islamiyat Yusuf, a weightlifter hailing from Erin-Osun in Osun State, has called on governments at all levels to focus more in developing and support other sports in Nigeria.
Yusuf, who has won medals for Nigeria in weightlifting, made this plea during a Twitter Space discussion titled “One on One with Ijoba Sports” on Thursday organized by Olushola Alabi.
“While acknowledging the government’s efforts in investing in female athletes, we still need more support because there are many athletes ready to showcase their skills, but lack facilities and equipment for training,” she disclosed.
Highlighting the importance of sports like weightlifting and wrestling, Yusuf emphasized that they deserve more recognition as they provide ample opportunities to secure medals for Nigeria in major continental and global championships.
Commenting on the disparity in training facilities and equipment between Nigeria and other countries she has visited, Yusuf acknowledged the vast difference but commended Nigerian athletes for excelling despite the challenges.
She urged governments to shift focus and prioritize other sports, especially female sports, to create opportunities for emerging talents to thrive.
Yusuf concluded by emphasizing the need for government investment in grassroots sports development to unearth hidden talents at the local level.
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