Former Lagos Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola says sports in Nigeria is more than just entertainment — it’s a powerful tool for job creation, investment, and youth empowerment.

Speaking at the launch of veteran journalist Dr. Mumini Alao’s autobiography at the University of Lagos, Fashola urged leaders to stop treating sports as an afterthought.

“With the right policies, sports can pay for itself, create jobs, and keep young people off the streets,” he said.

The event brought together top sports figures and ex-Super Eagles stars, who agreed that sports can help build peace and grow the economy — if Nigeria gets serious about it.