From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A former renowned Nigerian footballer, Dr. Segun Odegbami, popularly called, Odegbami Mathematical, has identified Sport as a tool that could be used to change the world for the better, in terms of unity, discipline, peace and development among nations.
Odegbami stated this while delivering the 15th Distinguished Public Lecture of the Federal University, Lokoja, on Wednesday.
The Sport guru in his lecture titled: Sport Has The Power To Change The World- How True, affirmed that sporting activities have impacted positively in promoting politics, unity, peace and development across the world.
According to him “Sport is of more value than a game in bringing people of the globe together in the spirit of promoting unity and social change
“Sport is an agent of global growth. It is also an inspirer, unifier, friendship and instrument of dousing tension and conflict
“Sport and Media are inseparable as it enhances media practice and education of the people as well as business activities. On the other hand, the media uses the power of sport to thrive
“Sport also serves as catalyst for attitudinal change world over, it has serious connection in promotion of physical health and healthier environment”
He described Sport as a tool for global fight against illiteracy, hunger and poverty.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, restated his administration’s commitment to advancing knowledge, stimulating intellectual discourse, and engaging with issues of national and global relevance.
” In line with this commitment, we have had the privilege of inviting eminent personalities and scholars, both from within and outside Nigeria, to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with us.
“As academics, we recognize the transformative power of sports beyond the field of play. Sports inspire, build discipline, and cultivate leadership—values that are crucial for individual and national development.
“In this light, today’s lecture, titled “Sport Has the Power to Change the World. How True?” is both timely and relevant. Dr. Segun Odegbami, a former Nigerian footballer, celebrated sports analyst, and passionate advocate for youth development, is uniquely positioned to guide us through this thoughts provoking discussion.
“His remarkable achievements, from leading Nigeria to victory in the 1980 African Cup of Nations to his dedication to nurturing young athletes through the International Sports Academy, make him a worthy speaker on this important subject”
