The disappointing performance of Team Nigeria at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics has been largely attributed to the significant absence of psychologists within the team structure. This critical oversight has raised concerns among sports experts and stakeholders regarding the mental and emotional support that athletes require to perform at their best.
During the Annual National Conference of the Sports Psychologists Association of Nigeria (SPAN), which took place at the National Institute in Lagos on Wednesday, Professor Clement Fasan delivered a compelling lead paper on this pressing issue. He emphasized that Nigeria would have likely achieved better results if Team Nigeria had incorporated the expertise of sports psychologists into their preparation and training regimen.
Addressing the conference under the theme: Optimizing Athletes Performance and Wellbeing: Challenges for Sports Stakeholders in the 21st Century, Professor Fasan stated, “We cannot talk of optimizing athletes’ performance without addressing their well-being or welfare. Athletes are inherently fragile and have limited careers, often with expiration dates. They are also highly susceptible to injuries, which can be severe and potentially cut short their careers abruptly. Therefore, it is imperative that we develop comprehensive programs and incentive methodologies that cater specifically to their well-being and welfare. Without the crucial support of psychologists, athletes cannot achieve their full potential.”
In a similar vein, Professor Seun Omotayo contributed to the discussion by highlighting the importance of managing both success and failure effectively. He pointed out that Tobi Amusan’s recent failure could be attributed to a lack of psychological management. He stressed that sports is a scientific endeavor, and without the necessary mental conditioning, talent and technique alone would not be sufficient to secure success. Furthermore, he asserted that coaching is an integral part of a broader coaching philosophy that must include psychological preparation.
Adding to the conversation, Professor Olawale Moronkola, the Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, remarked that the timing of this event is particularly significant. Nigerian sports are currently under intense scrutiny due to the disappointing performances observed in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics. He noted that the theme of the conference is especially relevant as it aligns with the collective efforts of stakeholders in the sports industry who are striving to enhance the overall fortunes of sports in Nigeria. The goal is to achieve better podium success in both national and international competitions. Professor Moronkola urged all participants to take full advantage of this event as an opportunity to address and rectify many of the issues that have adversely affected the landscape of sports in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for a concerted effort to implement changes that will foster improved performance and greater success for Nigerian athletes on the world stage.
