The Role of Democracy on the Development of Physical Education Programs in Nigeria: Challenges and the Way Forward

Abstract

This paper examines the historical perspective of the contributions of democracy to
the development of physical education in Nigeria. It reviewed relevant literature on
the role of democratization on the development of physical education. It highlights
the act of governance brought about by democracy leading to the formulation of the
National Policy on Education and the National Sports Development Policy. This
raises hope for the growth and development of physical education. However,
negative factors continue to affect the development of physical education programs,
including misconceptions about physical education, lack of full implementation of
the National Sports Development Policy, poor teacher salaries, lack of instructional
facilities, and the much emphasis on teacher development. This superimposes that
real job opportunities are not always discussed and limits students’ passion for
studying physical education. It recommends that there should be sensitization and
diversification of the physical education curriculum and the full implementation of
the National Sports Development Policy.