Ojewole advocates increased investment in sports as tool for youth development

The President/Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole, has called on governments at all levels to increase investment in sports, describing it as a critical instrument for character development, discipline and national growth.

Ojewole made the call during a visit to members of Nigeria’s national table tennis team currently undergoing a training camp at Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, ahead of upcoming continental competitions.

The university administrator said sports play a vital role in shaping responsible citizens and complement academic development by instilling values such as perseverance, teamwork and leadership.

According to him, Babcock University’s educational philosophy focuses on developing “the heart, the head and the hands,” stressing that physical fitness and sporting activities contribute significantly to students’ overall growth and success.

“Sports teach discipline, determination and good sportsmanship. Losing is part of winning. That’s why sports have a place in Babcock University,” Ojewole said.

He commended the national team players for their humility, discipline and commitment, noting that engagement in sports helps young people stay focused and avoid negative influences.

The vice chancellor’s remarks come amid growing expectations that increased government spending on sports will boost infrastructure development, athlete welfare and Nigeria’s competitiveness on the international stage.

The 2026 sports budget was increased to N203.6 billion from N78 billion in 2025, a development many stakeholders believe could transform the sector into a major driver of youth empowerment, national pride and economic growth.

“When you invest in sports, you are investing in character building,” Ojewole said. “Africa has the largest population of young people. Let’s do it for the future and for prosperity.”

Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, Dr. Adesoji Tayo, praised Babcock University for providing a conducive environment for the national team’s preparations.

Tayo, who is also President of the Babcock University Alumni Association, said the institution has consistently supported the federation with quality facilities, accommodation, feeding and healthcare services for athletes.

He noted that the partnership between the federation and the university, which began in 2018, has helped position Babcock as a major training base for table tennis in Nigeria.

According to him, the current three-week training camp is part of preparations for the forthcoming African Championships scheduled to hold in Ghana and Guinea.

Tayo expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform strongly and secure medals at the tournament, while also highlighting the role of sports in addressing youth restiveness and insecurity.

One of the athletes in camp, Mathew Kuti, described the training environment at Babcock University as excellent and conducive for optimal performance.

“We train well, we rest, we do everything,” Kuti said.

The table tennis star, who has represented Nigeria in several international competitions, added that the structured environment and discipline within the camp have helped athletes remain focused on their objectives.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances at the upcoming championships, saying the team is determined to make the country proud.