Setting up training camps and playing friendly matches outside Nigeria undermines the growth of Sports as an industry in according to former Athletics Federation of Nigeria board member, Kayode Thomas.

Kayode slammed the Nigeria Football Federation over its decision to set up camp for the Super Eagles and schedule friendly matches for the team in France.

The Sports Administrator lamented the negative impact of such “erroneous” concepts that it actually pays more to camp national athletes abroad.

He said the situation potentially damages relations between the players and home fans.

“I heard that the last friendly we played in London barely had 2000 fans in attendance. What sort of relationship do our players have with the Nigerian fans?,” He queried.

The former Guardian Newspaper Sports Editor, cited examples of progressives like Jamaica, who have benefited off ensuring athletes return to the Island for camping and conditioning ahead of major International events.