By Titilayo Iwalewa
Retired Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration (ACG), Segun Adegoke has revealed that sports in Nigeria can only be developed in line with contemporary realities in the world if there is synergy with appropriate stakeholders within and outside the sports industry.
Adegoke, who was recently appointed Special Adviser, Migration and Homeland Security to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, made the call while hosting the leadership of Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC), led by its President, Dr Rafiu Ladipo in his Ibadan residence on Thursday.
Adegoke a lawyer, and former United Nations Advisor on Immigration thanked the NBBofC boss for finding time to visit him assuring the boxing body of a good synergy anywhere it might be necessary towards improving the livelihood of youths in Oyo State through sporting activities.
He noted that collaboration has become imperative, particularly as sports is not only one of the most unifying factors for all Nigerians but also one of the key sectors that contributes to the socio-economic development of the nation.
The retired ACG however thanked Governor Makinde for his good vision in ensuring holistic security of Oyo State by his appointment, stressing that the office of Migration and Homeland Security provides professional services to enhance the economy of the state and manage the flow of people and products into and out of Oyo State.
Dr. Ladipo on behalf of Nigeria Supporters Club and NBBof C expressed his gratitude to the former immigration chief for his assistance to the body when he was in-charge of the passport office in Ikoyi Lagos where he usually gave express service to members of the supporters club.
Other members of the NBBofC family that accompanied Dr Ladipo on the visit are the Secretary General of the body, Mr. Remi Aboderin, the Chairman of Oyo State Chapter of NBBofC, Hon. Gbenga Opaleye and his vice, Hon. Bako Arowolo with their secretary, Olanrewaju Agiri.