Former President Goodluck Jonathan has made a passionate appeal for the establishment of a retirement benefits fund to support Nigerian athletes who have brought glory to the nation. He stressed that many sports icons, despite their achievements on the international stage, often face financial hardship after retiring from competition.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of a 25,000-seat stadium in Igbogene, Yenagoa, marking Governor Douye Diri’s five years in office, Jonathan emphasized the need for a well-managed fund to provide lifelong financial security for retired athletes. He urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) and state governments to take up the initiative, ensuring that former sportsmen and women are not left struggling to survive.
Reflecting on his time in office, Jonathan expressed regret over not initiating such a program during his presidency. He noted that many Nigerian athletes who have won medals at prestigious events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games are celebrated at the height of their careers but later abandoned. The lack of post-career support, he said, discourages young talents from fully committing to sports, fearing an uncertain future.
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Jonathan insisted that a structured and transparent fund, managed by respected individuals, would prevent retired athletes from resorting to public appeals for financial assistance. He argued that ensuring lifelong support for sports heroes would inspire younger generations to dedicate themselves to excellence, knowing their sacrifices would not go unrewarded.
Praising Governor Diri’s vision, Jonathan expressed confidence that the newly launched stadium project would be completed within its 24-month timeline, further strengthening Bayelsa’s commitment to sports development.