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Article Title: Community-Based Sports Programmes And Socioeconomic Inclusion Of Disadvantaged Groups In Bayelsa State
by Leghemo Tinimotei Stephen, PhD and Goodness Ene-Bongilli, PhD

Abstract:
This study examined community-based sports programmes and socioeconomic inclusion of disadvantaged groups in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The research focused on two main objectives: to identify the types of community-based sports programmes available to disadvantaged groups and to determine their contribution to socioeconomic inclusion. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a target population comprising disadvantaged groups, including youths, women, and persons with disabilities who are engaged in or have access to community sports initiatives across the state. Using snowballing sampling techniques, a total of 200 respondents were selected to participate in the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire titled Community Sports and Socioeconomic Inclusion Questionnaire (CSSIQ), developed and validated by experts, with a reliability coefficient of 0.86 established using Cronbach Alpha. Data analysis involved mean (x?) and standard deviation to address the research questions. The findings revealed that community-based sports programmes such as football tournaments, volleyball competitions, athletics, and fitness activities are widely accessible and provide avenues for skill acquisition, networking, empowerment, and social participation. The results also showed that such programmes significantly contribute to socioeconomic inclusion by enhancing employability, promoting social cohesion, and improving the self-reliance of disadvantaged groups. The study concludes that community-based sports programmes are a viable strategy for fostering inclusion and empowerment in Bayelsa State. It is recommended that policymakers, community leaders, and development agencies invest in expanding sports infrastructure, provide capacity-building opportunities, and integrate sports into broader socioeconomic development initiatives.

Keywords: Community-Based Sports, Socioeconomic Inclusion, Disadvantaged Groups

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