SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AS TOOLS FOR CURBING CAMPUS CULTISM IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

The establishment of tertiary institutions in Nigeria was primarily aimed at fostering
academic excellence, moral development, and national progress. However, the
menace of cultism has become a major threat to these objectives, leading to violence,
insecurity, and academic decline. Campus tranquillity has been undermined by
cultism, which has an impact on social cohesion and education. This study looks at
how recreational activities and sports psychology can be useful strategies for
reducing campus cultism. It highlights how organized leisure and athletic programs
can help students focus their energies in constructive ways, develop self-discipline,
and improve their mental health. The history of cultism in Nigeria, the causes of
restlessness in young people, and the value of leisure in character development are all
covered in the study. It comes to the conclusion that by encouraging social
cohesiveness, collaboration, and emotional stability, well-run sports and leisure
activities can aid in the decline of cultism. Recommendations include the
establishment of diverse recreational programmes, proper maintenance of facilities,
and professional management of sports and recreation services in Nigerian tertiary
institutions.