Athletics stakeholders in the South-West region believe that the sport will witness positive change if the recommendations at the inaugural regional conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State, are implemented.

The conference brought together over 55 delegates representing the six states in the region.

Key recommendations from the conference include the formation of the South-West Athletics Group that would be governed by a board comprising all the chairmen of the states’ associations, with each chairman taking yearly turns to lead the board.

To enhance sports development, the conference called for the creation of a trust fund dedicated to supporting athletic programmes and initiatives in the region.

They also emphasised the need to revamp school sports programmes and events. By attracting content development and ensuring visibility for sponsors, these programmes, they said, can contribute to a robust and consistent school sports calendar.

The conference also called for an end to the rivalry between the Ministry of Education and Sports Commissions/Councils as cooperation and collaboration are essential for promoting better performances among athletes, coaches, and officials.

Recommendations included providing incentives and motivational packages for athletes, coaches, and officials.

The members said that the establishment of government scholarships and an adopt-a-talent programme will nurture early-stage development and create opportunities for successful professional sports careers.

The stakeholders stressed the importance of qualified, experienced, and unbiased technical officials overseeing school-based sports programs.

According to the conference, the South West Athletics Conference marks a promising step towards advancing athletics in the region, fostering talent, and creating a vibrant sports ecosystem.