Nigerian singer Seun Kuti has launched a scathing attack on the government for its lack of investment in sports, pointing to Nigeria’s dismal performance at the 2024 Olympics as proof.
In a video posted on Instagram, the outspoken artist criticized the country’s focus on low-cost sports, accusing the government of neglecting more resource-intensive sports. “I was watching the Olympic games, and it was clear how poorly we performed. Nigerians only participated in sports that don’t require much investment. We stuck to the cheapest sports, like track and field, where all you need is the ability to run,” Kuti said.
Kuti didn’t hold back, highlighting that while sports like football are accessible even with minimal resources—where kids can use slippers as goalposts—Nigeria was conspicuously absent in sports requiring more equipment, like tennis, basketball, or gymnastics. “In sports where you can’t easily improvise—where you need proper courts, nets, and gear—Nigeria was nowhere to be found,” he added.
He called on the government to invest in sports leagues and offer significant prize money to athletes, arguing that Nigerians are passionate about a wide range of sports. “Nigerians know these sports and even bet on them. So why not invest in a good league here? Offer $25 million to the winners, or at least a million dollars a year. This is what athletes are earning in Europe, after all,” Kuti proposed.
Kuti also lamented the lack of opportunities for homegrown talent, blaming the exodus of athletes representing other countries on the government’s failure to support them. “We are missing out on our own talent. I watched the Olympics and saw people with Nigerian names achieving incredible things for other nations. If Simone Biles can be that great, how many young girls here are wasting their talent because we won’t invest in gymnastics?” he questioned.
Seun Kuti’s remarks have sparked a heated debate, with many echoing his concerns about Nigeria’s approach to sports development.
