Paragraph 1: The Aberration of a Two-Person Commission
Dan Ngerem, former president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, has vehemently criticized the present structure of the re-established National Sports Commission (NSC). He argues that operating the commission with only a chairman and director-general, without a full board, represents a severe governance flaw, especially considering the vast sums of money the NSC manages. Ngerem likens this structure to running a multi-million dollar corporation without a board of directors, a scenario unthinkable in the corporate world. He emphasizes that this setup creates an environment ripe for opacity, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability, issues that have long plagued Nigerian sports administration.
Paragraph 2: The Importance of a Competent Board
Ngerem stresses the critical need for a properly constituted board comprised of individuals with proven corporate governance experience. He points out that numerous committees, including one he chaired, advocated for the re-establishment of the NSC. Now that it exists, he questions the logic of having only two individuals at the helm. A competent board, he argues, is essential for directing the affairs of the commission effectively, ensuring transparency, and fostering accountability. The absence of such a board not only deviates from established best practices but also undermines confidence in the NSC’s ability to manage public funds responsibly.
Paragraph 3: Deterring Private Investment
Ngerem warns that the lack of a board significantly hinders private sector investment in Nigerian sports. He explains that prospective investors, including high-net-worth individuals, are hesitant to engage with an organization lacking a proper governance structure. The absence of a board raises concerns about transparency and due diligence, making potential investors wary of committing their resources. Ngerem believes this leadership vacuum is a major obstacle to attracting the much-needed private investment for developing Nigerian sports.
Paragraph 4: The Risk of Financial Mismanagement
The absence of a functioning board, according to Ngerem, creates a breeding ground for potential financial misuse, particularly during international sporting events where large sums of money are involved. He emphasizes that a board is essential for overseeing the commission’s financial activities and ensuring accountability. Without this crucial oversight mechanism, there’s a heightened risk of funds being misappropriated or misused, further eroding public trust in the NSC.
Paragraph 5: A Call for Adherence to Established Structures
Ngerem highlights the existence of established blueprints for the NSC’s structure, such as the Ogbemudia Report and other relevant documents, all of which emphasize the importance of a board. He questions why these established guidelines are being ignored and calls for the immediate implementation of a properly constituted board. This, he argues, is crucial for restoring credibility, attracting investment, and promoting good governance within the commission.
Paragraph 6: The Need for Transparency and Accountability
Ngerem’s critique underscores the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability within Nigerian sports administration. The current arrangement, he argues, not only deviates from best practices but also perpetuates a culture of opacity and inefficiency. He advocates for a comprehensive overhaul of the NSC’s structure, ensuring that it aligns with established principles of corporate governance. A properly functioning board, comprised of individuals with relevant expertise and integrity, is crucial for fostering public trust, attracting investment, and driving the development of Nigerian sports.
