Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Nigerian government to establish a pension fund for retired athletes who have represented the country internationally.
He made this call during the groundbreaking ceremony for a 25,000-capacity Olympic stadium in Igbogene, Yenagoa, as part of Governor Douye Diri’s fifth anniversary in office.
Jonathan expressed concern over the financial struggles of many former athletes who once brought glory to Nigeria. He lamented that after winning medals at events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, these athletes are often celebrated briefly but later abandoned.
“It is heartbreaking to see athletes who made Nigeria proud struggle to survive after retirement. This discourages young talents from fully committing to sports,” Jonathan said.
He urged the National Sports Commission to set up a pension scheme at both national and state levels. He emphasized that the fund should be managed by credible individuals to ensure long-term support for retired athletes.
“We must take care of those who have served the country until their last days. This will inspire the younger generation to give their best in sports,” he added.
Jonathan also expressed hope that he would join President Bola Tinubu in commissioning the new stadium upon its completion in 24 months. He noted that Nigeria previously lacked FIFA-standard stadiums for international matches.
Governor Douye Diri described the project as a game-changer for Bayelsa State, promising that it would create jobs and boost the local economy. He called for sponsorship from the Niger Delta Development Commission, banks, and international oil companies, citing successful sponsorship models in Europe and America.
“This stadium will inspire our youth, nurture talent, and produce future champions,” Diri said.
Key sports officials, including National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau, and FIFA committee member Amaju Pinnick, pledged their support to ensure the project meets international standards.
Bayelsa’s Sports Commissioner, Dr. Daniel Igali, revealed that the stadium, to be built by New Mutual Company, would be a hub for sports and entertainment. It is designed to be expandable and will be completed in 24 months.
