Despite being constrained by deep structural challenges, sports development—especially football—in Africa is beginning to undergo positive changes. Efforts to address these weaknesses are crucial not only to enhance the continent's ability to produce world-class athletes and teams but also to protect sports from political manipulation.
African Currents turned to Nigerian sports administrator and historian, author, statistician, and a respected voice in the global sports community Ejikeme Ikwunze, aka Mr. Football, to dissect the challenges hindering sports and talent development in Africa, and solutions, as well as the politicization of international athletic federations.
"Sports is your physical strength, your cognitive domain, and your psychology. It means a lot. So if any of them is lacking, there will be a loophole somewhere along the line. When you provide all these accessories, or what may be called ingredients, the difference will be clear [...]. Since we know that football has become an export commodity, we should promote the exportation of our players. It's important," Ikwunze said.
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