Olympic gold medalist Gadzama applauds Tinubu’s appointment of Dikko

Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medalist Tafida Gadzama has praised Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for heeding public calls to reinstate the National Sports Commission (NSC) and remove John Owan Enoh from the role of Minister of Sports Development. Gadzama, who played a pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s first Olympic relay gold, also expressed gratitude for the appointment of Shehu Dikko as NSC Chairman, seeing it as a decisive move for the nation’s sporting future.

“Thank you, Mr President, for not only removing Mr Enoh but for also scrapping the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, which has become a haven for corruption. Nigerians, especially sportsmen and women, will be eternally grateful to you for bringing back the National Sports Commission and for appointing Dikko as the Chairman,” Gadzama said, speaking from the United Kingdom.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s past sporting successes, Gadzama attributed much of the country’s golden years in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s to the foundation set by the former National Sports Commission. He expressed confidence in Dikko’s ability to revive this legacy.

“I believe Dikko can lay another solid foundation that will herald a new era in Nigerian sports, attracting essential funding without the need for constant government support. His vast international experience equips him to be a transformative leader for Nigerian sports.”

Gadzama, who is also the Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s first Vice President, highlighted Dikko’s global exposure and extensive sports administration background, describing him as well-positioned to advance Nigerian sports.

“Dikko has held significant roles within and outside Nigeria, amassing expertise to hit the ground running when he assumes leadership,” Gadzama remarked. He underscored Dikko’s adeptness in fostering relationships with athletes, coaches, and key stakeholders, alongside his organisational skills in planning and executing events.

“I am confident his passion for sports and his proficiency in planning, scheduling, and managing events and activities will make him that game changer we have been yearning for in Nigeria,” Gadzama concluded, expressing optimism about Dikko’s potential to transform Nigerian sports.