Author(s)

Okechukwu Chidoluo Vitus

Affiliation(s)

Omnibus Institute of Professional Learning and Development, Lagos 42100, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author

Okechukwu Chidoluo Vitus

ABSTRACT

This research article explores the effects of foreign dependence on local sports in Nigeria, focusing on the implications for development, performance, and cultural identity. The primary objective of the study is to analyze how reliance on foreign resources, expertise, and talent influences the growth and sustainability of domestic sports programs. Methodologically, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys distributed to athletes, coaches, and sports administrators, with qualitative interviews that provide deeper insights into personal experiences and perceptions regarding foreign influence in Nigerian sports. The sample includes a diverse range of stakeholders across various sports disciplines, ensuring a holistic view of the current landscape. Key findings indicate that while foreign investment and expertise can enhance the quality of training and competition, they also create an imbalance that undermines local talent development. Many respondents expressed concerns that the influx of foreign athletes and coaches can overshadow homegrown talent, leading to a dependency that stunts local innovation and growth. Furthermore, the study highlights the detrimental effects on cultural identity, as local sports increasingly adopt foreign styles and norms, potentially alienating the grassroots audience. In conclusion, the research underscores the need for a balanced approach that leverages foreign expertise while simultaneously fostering local talent and infrastructure. Policymakers are encouraged to develop strategies that prioritize the cultivation of homegrown athletes and ensure that foreign influence contributes positively to Nigeria's unique sports culture, fostering both competitiveness and national pride.

KEYWORDS

Coaches; Research; Competition; Learning, Professional; Education

CITE THIS PAPER

Okechukwu Chidoluo Vitus. The impact of foreign dependence on local sports in Nigeria: a mixed-methods analysis of development, performance, and cultural identity. World Journal of Sport Research. 2025, 3(1): 1-7. DOI: https://doi.org/10.61784/wjsr3005.

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