Stakeholders’ Perception of the Role on Sport Participation in Youth Development in Kogi State

Abstract

This study investigated stakeholders' perception of the role of sport participation in the development of youths in Kogi State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the role of sport participation in promoting the physical development of youths, influencing behavioural modification, and enhancing interpersonal relationships among young people. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised stakeholders in sports development, including coaches, teachers, sports administrators, community leaders, and parents in Kogi State. A structured questionnaire titled Stakeholders' Perception of the Role of Sport Participation in Youth Development Questionnaire was used for data collection. Experts validated the instrument, and its reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha, with a coefficient of 0.87. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that stakeholders agreed that sport participation contributes significantly to the physical development of youths (cluster mean = 3.34), behavioural modification (cluster mean = 3.02), and the development of interpersonal relationships (cluster mean = 3.00). The study concluded that sport participation is an effective tool for promoting healthy living, positive behaviour, teamwork, social interaction, and overall youth development in Kogi State. However, the developmental benefits of sports can only be fully realized through adequate stakeholder support, improved sporting facilities, effective policy implementation, and sustained investment in youth sports programmes. The study recommended increased government funding for sports development, strengthening of school sports programmes, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, organization of grassroots sports competitions and talent development initiatives, and continuous awareness campaigns on the benefits of sports participation among youths.