By Asuquo Cletus
The Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has convened a one-day conference to advocate for the domestication of the National Sports Policy in the state.
Held on Thursday at the Tent in Calabar, the event brought together key stakeholders from government, the sports sector, media, and civil society to discuss practical strategies for implementing the Federal Government’s sports blueprint at the state level.
Representing the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey, at the event, Chief Press Secretary Fred Abua lauded the NUJ for spearheading the conversation around policy domestication.
In a show of support, the Deputy Governor announced a donation of N1 million to the NUJ to support its advocacy and developmental efforts.
“I commend your tireless efforts in shaping public discourse, promoting transparency, and holding those in power accountable,” Abua said.
“Your dedication to truth-telling is invaluable to our democracy. The Governor’s administration is committed to collaboration with your union for the good of our communities.
“Let us work together to promote responsible journalism and avoid the spread of unverified news that undermines public trust and stability. On behalf of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu and the Government of Cross River State, I wish you a successful Media Week celebration. I hereby declare this conference open.
“The Deputy Governor has also asked me to lend his support to this event with a donation of N1 million to cover logistics. The NUJ chairman can pick up the money at His Excellency’s office.”
In her welcome address, NUJ Cross River State Chairman, Archibong Eso, said the conference was aimed at stimulating dialogue on repositioning sports as a tool for youth development, economic growth, and social cohesion.
“Sports must be seen beyond recreation. It is a catalyst for engagement, empowerment, and employment. I hope our discussions today will lead to tangible improvements in sports development in Cross River State,” she stated.
Delivering a keynote address, Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, emphasized the need for state-level implementation of the national policy. He called for the immediate adoption of the National Sports Policy, stakeholder involvement, media advocacy, and integration of sports into educational curricula.
Dr. Duke decried the lack of funding, corruption, and over-reliance on government budgets, which have hindered grassroots sports development in the state.
“There is an urgent need to establish a Cross River State Sports Council, not a commission, and it should be led by the Governor or Deputy Governor,” he said.
“Government cannot do it alone. We must engage all critical stakeholders. Sports development will not only improve physical health but will also boost the state’s economy and reduce crime.”
Also speaking, Dr. MacFarlane Ejah urged the state government to align the National Sports Policy with local realities and development priorities.
He proposed the creation of a task force comprising journalists, policymakers, sports administrators, private sector players, and civil society groups to drive the policy domestication process.
“The Ministry of Youths and Sports should deepen investment in grassroots talent development. Media organizations should also build the capacity of journalists for impactful sports reporting that can shape public policy,” he added.
A communiqué issued at the end of the conference outlined immediate and long-term strategies to revive Cross River State’s sports potential through policy alignment and stakeholder collaboration.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to sustained advocacy and pledged to monitor progress to ensure sports development remains a priority on the state’s agenda.
