UI Professor Calls for Mental Game Clinics in Tertiary Institutions

A Professor of Psychology of Sports and Exercise at the University of Ibadan, Professor Olufemi Adegbesan, has advocated for the development of mental game clinics in tertiary institutions and sports centers.

He made this call during the 587th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience for both athletes and non-athletes.

Professor Adegbesan explained that mental games in sports and exercise psychology encompass psychological characteristics such as mental toughness, confidence, motivation, focus, resilience, and emotional regulation. These characteristics are essential for optimal performance and can be applied to various life situations beyond sports and exercise.

Mental clinics can teach coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety, building confidence, and fostering a growth mindset. They can also promote a healthy relationship with failure, encouraging resilience and learning.

Professor Adegbesan urged the National Sports Commission to leverage the globalization of sports and exercise psychology to revolutionize the sports industry in Nigeria. He recommended that sports psychology be made a mandatory part of the selection process for athletes and that sports psychologists be included in technical teams for athletes competing at various levels.

The professor also emphasized the need for research activities related to sports and youth development, as well as collaboration with private partners to support the growth of the sporting ecosystem. By prioritizing mental game development, Nigeria can enhance its sports industry and give athletes a competitive edge.