The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Othman Adams has advocated legislation to compel companies doing business in the state to contribute funds for sports development.
Adams told newsmen in Lafia that such legislation would go a long way to address issues bordering on funds, to develop budding talents and reward performance.
According to him, contractors, companies and corporate organisations in the state will remit some funds into the state government coffer, specifically for sports development, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
He also said that the legislation, if operational, would target a holistic sports development in the state.
“It is a known fact that, most of these organisations operating in Nasarawa state does not engage in any form of CSR,“ he said.
He stressed the need for a law to compel contractors and organisations doing business in the state to contribute some amount to the state government coffer.
According to him, such move will boost sports development, help discover talents, develop them and appropriately reward retired athletes who performed diligently during their days.
He decried the poor state of health of many retired athletes who had made the state and country proud during their active days.
“Some of these retired athletes, including footballers, who brought glory to the nation, have been abandoned to their fate as they can hardly feed or attend to their health.
“This should not be, considering the sacrifices they have made.”
The commissioner, however, urged athletes to always prepare ahead of retirement in order not to become a liability at old age.
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