The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has praised the leadership of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) under Dr. Zacch Adedeji, describing him as a visionary public servant and committed supporter of sports development in Nigeria.

Olopade, who made the remark in Abuja during a visit to the FIRS Headquarters, commended the FIRS’ involvement in sports. He stated that FIRS is one of the key partners of the upcoming CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championships holding in Abeokuta, Ogun State between July 16 and 20.

The Championship is a continental gathering of rising athletic stars and is powered by public-private partnerships championed under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Adedeji is not just a reformist in the tax administration space, but also a passionate lover of sports,” Olopade said. “The FIRS’ support for this championship is a clear signal that sports and taxation can work hand-in-hand to build a stronger, healthier, and more united Nigeria, as we work to stimulate Nigeria’s sports economy.”

He emphasised the growing intersection between taxation and national development, stressing that sports, when properly funded, and strategically positioned, can generate jobs, contribute to the nation’s economy, and promote unity.

Speaking further, Olopade said: “There is a natural synergy between taxation and sports. Taxes fund infrastructure, education, and now—more importantly—grassroots and elite sports development. This partnership with FIRS demonstrates how a forward-thinking tax institution can catalyze social impact beyond revenue generation.”

He called for a more formalised and enduring working relationship between the NSC and FIRS to support long-term sports development strategies, athlete welfare, and infrastructure investment.

“Sports development is no longer just a recreational agenda, but an economic, health, and diplomatic tool. And institutions like the FIRS have a critical role to play in this vision,” Olopade added.

The 2025 CAA U18/U20 Championships will host athletes from about 50 African nations and it is expected to be a defining moment in Nigeria’s athletics history, particularly as the Championship aligns with the Federal Government’s push to make Nigeria a sports hub in Africa.
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