Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, a prominent sports stakeholder, has urged the Nigerian government to appoint technocrats to lead the sports sector, arguing that political appointments have hindered progress.

Speaking at the maiden Big Sports Dialogue 0.1 in Ikoyi, Lagos, Atoyebi highlighted the lack of professional expertise and poor infrastructure as key challenges facing Nigerian sports. She stressed that technocratic leadership would ensure realistic planning, effective implementation, and accountability, essential for reviving the sector.

Atoyebi also lamented the neglect of women’s sports, despite female athletes winning more international honours than their male counterparts, calling for greater institutional support and visibility. She emphasized that modern infrastructure is critical for athlete development and national sporting success.