The Minister of Sports, JOHN OWAN ENOH, has assured that the Federal Government will start implementing the National Sports Industry Policy (NSIP).

Speaking at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja, ENOH said the current administration has endorsed the NSIP as both corporate and private sectors play critical roles in sports sponsorships and infrastructure upgrades, adding that the policy has also provided an opportunity for moving sports away from mere recreation to business.

He noted that one of the key policy objectives of the present administration is that sports can be used as a source of unity, peace and stability for the country, job creation as well as providing opportunities for inclusivity in participation in sports by both male and female.

He explained that the government intends to set up machinery for interface with the newly discovered talents from the just concluded National Youth Games with a view to securing scholarships for their nurture to the elite stage.

The Minister also said that the Federal Government would build facilities and infrastructure at the grassroots across the country to provide early exposure and grooming for budding talents.

On reward for excellent athletes, Senator OWAN ENOH acknowledged the critical role welfare plays in the overall performance of athletes and assured that the ministry would not only set up a well-planned welfare scheme to cater for non-active and active sportsmen and women but also ensure that the country recognised their contributions through various honours.