Second Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and member of the Elite and Podium Development Board, Aku Aghazu, has applauded the National Sports Commission (NSC) for what she described as a historic transformation currently sweeping across Nigerian sports.
Speaking at the National Sports Council Technical Meeting in Calabar, Cross River State, Aghazu said the progress seen across multiple federations is the result of deliberate planning, strategic reforms and firm leadership from the NSC.
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“We are putting measures in place to bring a new dawn to sports in Nigeria, and we are already seeing the results,” she said. “From athletics to cricket, swimming, basketball and even our WAFCON ladies — we are doing amazingly well. This is a new era for Nigerian sports.”
Aghazu credited Nigeria’s strong showing at the Islamic Games in Saudi Arabia to the NSC’s targeted, high-performance strategy.
“Deliberate planning and the Elite Development and Podium Board, chaired by Mr. Yusuf Ali, alongside the NSC, agreed to take only athletes with clear medal-winning potential. That is why every sport we entered came back with a medal,” she explained.
Looking ahead to the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu, she expressed full confidence in the host state.
“Enugu promises to give the country the best Sports Festival we have ever witnessed,” she said. “Governor Peter Mbah is fully committed, and with the NSC’s leadership, we expect the most successful festival in Nigeria’s history.”
Aghazu also outlined reforms underway within the AFN under President Tonobok Okowa, including regular camping of local athletes — a departure from inconsistent preparations of the past — and renewed pride among athletes representing the nation.
“The Elite and Podium Board is ensuring that athletes receive grants for performance and preparation. These policies have been instrumental in lifting the AFN,” she said.
She added that more reforms are being finalized, promising even deeper changes ahead.
“Together with the NSC, we are bringing a whole new shape to the AFN.”
Aghazu concluded by praising the NSC leadership for its vision, structure and commitment, noting that the country is now witnessing the early fruits of a long-term transformation plan.
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