Public Investment in Sports Infrastructure and its Impact on Physical Activity Participation in Nigeria

This study examines the impact of public investment in sports infrastructure on physical activity participation in Nigeria, adopting an integrated approach that combines government spending review, econometric analysis, and policy evaluation. Motivated by the persistent gap between increasing public expenditure and low participation levels, the study investigates whether investment in sports infrastructure effectively translates into improved physical activity outcomes. Using a mixed-method explanatory design, data were drawn from national budget records (2010–2025), secondary datasets, and primary survey responses, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression techniques, and policy analysis frameworks. The findings reveal that while public investment in sports infrastructure has increased over time, its impact on physical activity participation remains positive but weak. Accessibility of facilities emerges as a more significant determinant of participation than aggregate spending, indicating that proximity, affordability, and inclusiveness are critical in shaping utilization. The study further identifies structural challenges, including poor maintenance, uneven distribution of facilities, and weak policy implementation, which limit the effectiveness of public investment. These results underscore the importance of aligning infrastructure provision with community needs and broader policy support systems. The study concludes that optimizing public investment requires a strategic shift toward community-based infrastructure, improved maintenance systems, and integrated policy frameworks to enhance participation and public health outcomes.