Top Nigerian names in the world of sport – including the likes of ex-Arsenal striker Nwanko Kanu and minister of sports Tammy Danagogo – have said sports personalities who have represented their country at international level must contribute more to the development of sport in the African nation.

The likes of Kanu and fellow former Nigeria international Tijani Babangida were commended for their efforts at a meeting in the Nigerian national football team’s home stadium, but Danagogo said other ex-internationals in all realms of sport must show the same willingness to contribute to the development of sport after their exit from active competition.

"For our ex-internationals, I want to thank you heartily for the role you have been playing in promoting the game of football in this country more than any group of sportsmen," said Danagogo.

"Those of you who played these games to the very peak should always come back to see how you will use everything you have acquired to galvanise the generality of our populace," he noted.

"Sports is one venture that certainly, government alone cannot embark on successfully. We need all hands to be on deck to make sure that our sports is successful."

Nigeria has focused its aim at developing athletes from a grassroots level, with the upcoming U19 President Cup – a competition where the winners will be enrolled into football academies in Nigeria, the US and Europe – an example of unearthing talents to potentially represent Nigeria on the international stage.