The Chairman of the Conference of Ministers, African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 2, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has emphasized the dire need for African nations to deliberately invest in and grow the continent’s sports economy, as a way to foster national development.
Mallam Dikko made this call while delivering his remarks at the Conference of Ministers Meeting held in Bujumbura, Burundi on Friday.
In his address, he highlighted the powerful role that sports can play in shaping national economies, boosting international visibility, and unlocking opportunities for millions of young people across the continent.
“Sports is not just entertainment; it is a major economic engine,” he said. “Countries like England, Brazil, the United States, and even smaller nations such as Croatia have shown how a well-developed sports ecosystem can contribute significantly to national GDP, create jobs, attract global events, and promote positive cultural exchange. Africa must be intentional in building a similar pathway for sustainable growth.”
Mallam Dikko stressed that African nations must position themselves as world-class destinations for hosting major sporting events, using these platforms to drive tourism, infrastructure development, and youth engagement.
He added that the success stories across the world provide a roadmap Africa can adapt and build upon.
“Look at UK, where the Premier League alone contributes billions of pounds annually to the economy in addition to massive jobs it’s sustaining. In Brazil, football is a national asset that drives tourism and global brand recognition. These are clear examples of what is possible when sports is developed strategically and intentionally.”
Calling for unity and collaboration, he emphasized the importance of collective action within the region.
“We must come together in Region 2 and unite to move sports forward,” Mallam Dikko said. “Only through cooperation, shared vision, and deliberate investment can we transform sports into a true driver of economic and social development for our people.”
The AUSC Region 2 leadership reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member nations in developing strong sports policies, attracting investment, and building structures that allow athletes, federations, and communities to thrive.
Mallam Dikko further seized the opportunity to inform the meeting on the massive resetting, restructuring and progress sports and other sectors is under going in Nigeria under the bold and visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the expected positive outcomes which are already manifesting.
