26/05/2025
APPLAUDS OGUN HOSTING, URGES STATES TO MATCH RISING SPORTS STANDARDS
By Musbahu Bala
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has applauded Ogun State for its exemplary hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a "game-changer" for sports development in Nigeria. He urged other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve upon the standards set by Ogun.
Speaking during a World Media Chat at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, Dikko highlighted the efficiency and professionalism with which the festival has been organized, noting the swift resolution of challenges and the high level of coordination.
> “This festival is a major improvement from previous editions,” he said. “It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games.”
Dikko emphasized that the Commission, following the President’s directive, is committed to transforming sports into a major economic driver.
> “We are building a sports economy—beyond the games, we are looking at job creation, the value chain, and revenue generation. Ogun’s example is now motivating other states to step forward and host,” he explained.
He revealed plans by the NSC to institutionalize a national calendar for the Sports Festival, proposing that November and December be fixed months for the event. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to attract private sector sponsorship through sustainable strategies.
Praising grassroots development, Dikko commended the inclusion of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) in the festival.
> “The IJA initiative excites us because it represents the future. These young talents, selected from youth games, are being nurtured to become tomorrow’s champions,” he stated.
According to him, these junior athletes, alongside elite performers, will represent Nigeria in the forthcoming African Youth Games. He added that 65 athletes are currently benefiting from the "Adopt-An-Athlete" initiative funded by the private sector under the Elite Athletes Development Podium Committee.
Dikko also announced a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education aimed at reviving school sports. This initiative will introduce structured sports programs in primary and unity schools across all local governments and establish “universities of excellence” in each geopolitical zone to support students with athletic potential.
On sports governance, he affirmed that the NSC would only support credible individuals for leadership roles in sports federations.
> “We will not tolerate non-performing presidents who contribute little to nothing,” Dikko asserted.
In a historic move, he praised the federal government for approving the budget for Olympic and Commonwealth Games preparations—marking the first time such a provision has been made in Nigeria’s sporting history. He reiterated that federation funds would be directed towards sports in which Nigeria has a competitive advantage.
Dikko concluded by appreciating the media for their fair coverage and announced plans to enhance media infrastructure at future festivals. He disclosed efforts to launch a dedicated private sports channel and to grow the Commission’s YouTube platform to increase visibility.
In his remarks, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, acknowledged some media concerns but assured that they had been proactively addressed. He promised improved infrastructure and facilities in future editions of the games.
