By Desmond Tunde Coker
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, head of the National Sports Authority (NSA), has emphasized the significant economic potential of sports, calling it a “multi-billion dollar industry” rather than merely a leisure activity. Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing on Tuesday, the NSA Boss highlighted the pivotal role sports play in Sierra Leone’s economy, noting its capacity as the country’s largest employer.
Dr. Abdulai cited the recent success of the 2023-2024 Sierra Leone Male and Female Premier Leagues, which created over 3,000 jobs within just eight months. “Sport is the biggest employer in Sierra Leone,” he told reporters, stressing that sports can drive significant economic growth and job creation.
Since taking office, Dr. Abdulai has focused on seven key pillars aimed at revolutionizing sports governance in the country, with goals ranging from infrastructural development to the decentralization of sports to foster national identity. Under his leadership, the NSA has drafted four sports statutory regulations, which are now set to be tabled in Parliament for approval.
The NSA Boss also underscored Sierra Leone’s growing influence in the African sports community, revealing that the country currently hosts the secretariat of the Africa Traditional Games and Sports Federation. Additionally, he announced that Namibia will host the 2026 edition of the Traditional Games Tournament, while Zimbabwe has been granted the 2028 edition.
Looking ahead, Dr. Abdulai said the NSA’s focus will be on expanding sports programs to schools and universities to cultivate talent at the grassroots level and build a stronger foundation for the country’s sports sector.
Minister of Sports Augusta James-Teima, who also attended the briefing, provided updates on the rehabilitation of the country’s sports infrastructure. She noted that the NSA and her ministry will not be able to generate significant revenue until the rehabilitation of the National Stadium is completed and reopened to the public.
The Minister further spoke about the ongoing installation of artificial turf in Tihun, the hometown of President Julius Maada Bio, highlighting it as part of their efforts to improve sports facilities across the nation. She also mentioned that a re-survey of Bo Stadium has been conducted, and work to fence the facility to prevent encroachment is progressing.
The National Sports Authority, established by an Act of Parliament, is tasked with promoting, developing, and overseeing all sports activities in Sierra Leone, playing a key role in fostering the growth of the nation’s sports industry.