Abuja, Nigeria — A new era is dawning in Nigeria’s sports sector as the National Sports Commission (NSC) embarks on a bold reform initiative focused on grassroots development, local capacity building, and performance-driven administration.
Declaring open a two-day capacity-building workshop for sports officers, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko underscored the importance of returning to the grassroots as the foundation for international sporting success.
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He called on officers and professionals under the National Sports Federations to embrace the Commission’s RHINSE vision — a policy aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This is the time to reset and refocus,” Dikko declared. “Our goal is to relaunch Nigerian sports to new heights by building from the ground up.”
With the recent approval of the “Nigeria First” policy by the Federal Executive Council, the Commission is channeling its focus on internal growth — from developing local talent to utilizing domestic services and expertise.
Dikko noted that the National Sports Commission now has a dedicated budget aimed at delivering critical infrastructure, with plans to concession key sports facilities in Lagos, Kaduna, Ibadan, and Bauchi for optimal usage.
“We are creating an environment that empowers you to perform at your best,” he said, urging Secretaries-General and federation leaders to be more proactive and results-driven.
The Commission is also turning to new frontiers, particularly E-sports, which Dikko described as a goldmine.
With over three million active players in Nigeria and some already earning up to $300 in 2024, the Chairman revealed plans to harness this emerging sector to help create millions of jobs.
Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade echoed the call for unity and courage among officers, while NOC President Engr. Habu Gumel encouraged closer collaboration with sports federation heads. Director of the Federation and Elite Athletes Department, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, emphasized the critical role of sports officers in driving the Commission’s vision forward.
Federal Civil Service Commissioner Hon. Gboyega Oyebade concluded by urging officers to set and monitor clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), in line with the federal Performance Management System.
The workshop represents more than just a training session — it marks the official kickoff of a new strategy that places Nigerian talent, innovation, and resilience at the heart of national sports development.
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