Benedict Peters’ immense contribution to sport

US industrialist and philanthropist, John D. Rockefeller, is remembered for great things, especially how much he did for others of lesser social and economic class. The man said very simply, “I believe it is my duty to make money and still more money and to use the money I make for the good of my fellow man according to the dictates of my conscience.” This just might be the guiding line of thought for Deltan billionaire and oil merchant, Benedict Peters, especially in his efforts to inspire young people via sports.

Depending on the source, Benedict Peters is number seven in the list of Nigerian billionaires, and number 17 among African’s wealthiest people. Notwithstanding, only a handful would make a case against Benedict Peters being the number one with reference to gross contributions and involvement in youth development by way of sports.

For Peters, sports is more than entertainment, but something akin to a gateway for people of modest (and privileged) backgrounds to make celebrated names for themselves. When he was recognised and honoured by Forbes Africa Magazine at a VIP reception in New York in September, 2018, this was listed in his litany of accolades: A keen believer in the power of sport to motivate and inspire youth, Benny has provided support to sports, sponsoring the Nigeria Football Federation for a five-year period, providing assistance to the Confederation of African Football Awards and the Aiteo Cup.

Folks will remember that it was Peters that masterminded the second edition of the Aiteo-NFF awards in 1994 to celebrate the legacy of the Super Eagles team of 1994, what he referred to as ‘the golden era…a phenomenal moment when our country spoke one language—football.’ During that event, Peters celebrated every contributor to sports, and was himself honoured with a standing ovation triggered by Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) president, Amaju Pinnick.

It was during that event in Eko Hotels and Suites that it was revealed that Benedict Peters is singularly responsible for 30% of the entire expenditure of the NFF. 30%! That is a pillar of sports indeed.

Benedict Peters is a paragon of sports, no question about it.