By Muzammil Dalha Yola
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has commended Ogun State for its outstanding hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria. He called on other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun.
Speaking during a World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, Dikko noted that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival.
"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, in line with the President's directive, is working to transform sports into a key 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 disclosed that the NSC is developing a national calendar that will set November and December as the fixed months for hosting the festival, and is working on a sustainable strategy to attract private sector sponsorship.
Highlighting the President’s passion for grassroots sports, Dikko praised the inclusion of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA), saying: “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."
The Chairman revealed that these junior athletes, along with selected elite athletes, will represent Nigeria in the upcoming African Youth Games. He added that 65 athletes are currently benefiting from the "Adopt-An-Athlete" initiative under private sector funding, managed by the Elite Athletes Development Podium Committee.
Dikko also announced a partnership with the Ministry of Education to revive school sports. This plan includes establishing sports programs in primary and unity schools across all local governments, and creating "universities of excellence" in each geopolitical zone to support students with athletic potential.
On governance, Dikko vowed that only credible individuals committed to sports development would be allowed to lead sports federations. “We will not tolerate non-performing presidents who contribute little to nothing,” he stated.
He also applauded the federal government for approving the Olympic and Commonwealth Games preparation budget a first in Nigeria’s sporting history. He reiterated that federation funds would focus on sports where Nigeria has a competitive edge.
Dikko concluded by thanking the media for their fair coverage and revealed plans to enhance media facilities for future festivals. He also announced ongoing efforts to establish a dedicated private sports channel and to expand the Commission’s YouTube presence to improve visibility and coverage.
In his remarks, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, acknowledged some concerns raised by the media, assuring that they were addressed in advance. He promised improved infrastructure and facilities in future editions of the games.
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