Pledges to Foster Unity, Growth within Nigeria’s Sports Ecosystem
Emphasizes Commitment to Transparency and Compliance
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity and growth within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem, following recent reports of an EFCC investigation into the newly created body. This statement signals a clear departure from past tendencies to escalate tensions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The NSC, under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade, has demonstrated a strong preference for collaboration over confrontation, ensuring that its role remains focused on overseeing all sports federations in Nigeria.
In a statement addressing the situation, the NSC clarified:
“To set the record straight, the EFCC requested the Commission to provide relevant documents concerning the NFF. This is standard procedure, as the NSC is the apex sports body in Nigeria, overseeing all sports federations.”
The NSC emphasized its commitment to transparency and compliance, reaffirming its determination to work cooperatively with both government agencies and the NFF to ensure accountability. Recent initiatives, such as Mallam Shehu Dikko’s engagement with NNPC leadership and Bukola Olopade’s discussions with Victor Ochei—an advocate for wheelchair basketball and tennis—illustrate the Commission’s proactive approach to securing sustainable development in Nigerian sports.
The NSC also issued an appeal to the sporting media, with Mike Obasi, media aide to the NSC Director-General, noting:
“The leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade values the role of the sporting media in the broader sports ecosystem. We urge the media to be responsive and professional in their reportage, as this is critical to achieving the vibrant and sustainable sports economy we all envision.”
This measured and collaborative approach marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s sports administration, with the NSC steadfast in its mission to create a thriving environment for sports to flourish, while ensuring the NFF and other federations receive the necessary support for excellence.
