A research report identifying systemic risks of corruption within the governance and organisation of sports has been officially released by the Anti-Corruption Commission. The primary objective behind the study was to analyse how state-funded sports associations obtain, manage, and spend assets and public funds, according to the commission, which also sought to evaluate the legal and institutional frameworks of sports authorities to pinpoint vulnerabilities and recommend necessary structural corrective measures.
The commission’s study outlined 18 specific reforms to address institutional deficiencies that facilitate corrupt practices across the sports administration system. To reinforce financial accountability, the watchdog recommended legally mandating sports associations to disclose all income and expenditures under a comprehensive reporting framework, alongside instituting regular independent audits and requiring the mandatory online publication of financial statements for executive leadership and designated high-risk officials.
The proposals further advised the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness to enforce clear standards for academy quality, coaching credentials, and safety measures through periodic physical inspections, while calling for transparent procurement, strengthened electoral integrity, and statutory performance reviews.
Speaking at the release of the report, Abdulla Rafiu, the minister of sports, cautioned that the sports sector had become a dangerous cover to conceal major crimes organised at national and international levels. Asserting that widespread reports of associations and clubs embezzling substantial state and international funds could not be ignored, Minister Rafiu observed that compromised institutional integrity invalidated the sacrifices and dedication of athletes.
The government has initiated coordinated oversight with regulatory bodies to monitor public spending under a reinforced audit mechanism, making adherence to newly established financial transparency rules strictly mandatory.