Former NBA player Ekezie speaks on opportunities in sports

Nigeria's unemployment rate stands at a staggering 33%, the second highest in the world, leaving many searching for solutions to combat this issue. One possible remedy that has been gaining attention is the potential for sports to rescue Nigeria's unemployment crisis. Obinaya Ekezie, Founder of the OBN Academy and former NBA player, sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the untapped opportunities in the sports industry of Nigeria. Ekezie highlighted the immense potential of the sports sector in contributing to the economic development of Nigeria by creating job opportunities for people of all ages. He emphasized the importance of investing in grassroots sports infrastructure to lay a solid foundation for the industry's growth. While there has been significant focus on professional sports in Nigeria, the neglect of grassroots development has hindered the industry's progress. Ekezie stressed the necessity of partnerships between schools, private sectors, and the government to create sustainable infrastructure for sports development. Drawing parallels with successful sports cultures in Europe and the US, Ekezie discussed the importance of channeling Nigerians' love for local music and entertainment into sports. He pointed out the gradual progression from grassroots levels to professional ranks in countries like the US, highlighting the need for a similar developmental pathway in Nigeria. The OBN Academy, focusing initially on basketball but with plans for expansion into other sports, aims to introduce a structured development program to nurture young talent in Nigeria. Ekezie's vision for the OBN Academy includes a state-of-the-art facility with a 700-seat arena, fitness and medical centers, and a video production studio for broadcasting games and practices. This private investment seeks to revolutionize sports infrastructure in Nigeria and create opportunities across various industries, such as construction, food production, and entertainment. Addressing the challenges faced in grassroots sports development, Ekezie acknowledged the constraints imposed by the current educational system's limited focus on sports. However, he expressed optimism about the growing interest from parents and children in programs like the OBN Academy, indicating a strong demand for sports involvement in education. By creating a sustainable and profitable model, Ekezie aims to expand the reach of the academy beyond Lagos and collaborate with individuals and companies invested in children's welfare. In conclusion, Obinaya Ekezie's efforts through the OBN Academy represent a significant step towards leveraging the potential of sports to address Nigeria's unemployment crisis. With a strategic focus on grassroots development and partnerships across sectors, Ekezie is pioneering a new era for the sports industry in Nigeria.