The Chairman National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has expressed his readiness and determination to drive the development and success of sports in Nigeria in alignment with global best practices.
He made this statement while addressing journalists after a novelty match played in his honour between Team Dikko Vs Team Nigeria held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja recently.
The Chairman emphasized that sports, beyond its recreational value, is now a significant business and pledged that the Commission is fully prepared to elevate it to an enviable global standard.
“We came in very prepared for the job,” Dikko said. “We have been observing and analyzing the sector for a long time, so we understand the challenges and know what needs to be done to take sports in Nigeria to the next level.”
Dikko outlined that under his leadership, the Commission has a clear roadmap and strategy to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He reassured that all stakeholders are on board to ensure the successful realization of this vision.
“Our plans and roadmap are already in place,” he added. “We are working as a team, aligning with the mandate of the President, and ensuring that sports in Nigeria reach its rightful position on the global stage.”
The Chairman highlighted his administration’s commitment to the maintenance and improvement of sports facilities across the nation, pledged to revamp the pitch of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium’s main bowl to meet international standards, ensuring it can host top-tier matches and events.
“We need to act swiftly to restore the pitch to world-class condition,” he said. “Our goal is to make it one of the best in the world and to ensure that it serves its purpose effectively.
Speaking also is the Director General, National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olapade who expressed optimism about the new administration’s ability to reform the sports sector. He pointed out plans to end the recurring issues of unpreparedness in engaging in international competitions.
“The vision to ensure our athletes are prepared for global events is real, we are committed to using sports as a tool for wealth creation and employment generation.”
Hon. Bukola reiterated that the Commission has devised a strategy to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to ensure the country qualifies for the next FIFA World Cup.
“We already have our plans and we are executing them effectively,” he noted. “The synergy with the NFF will be pivotal in achieving this important milestone for Nigerian football.”
The NSC leadership has expressed unwavering confidence in the ability of the Commission to transform sports in Nigeria, promising to deliver on their vision to align the sector with global best practices.
Signed
Kehinde Ajayi (Mrs)
Director (Information and PR)
NSC
