Shehu Dikko’s leadership will transform Nigerian sports – Drew Uyi

Football agent and global brand strategist Andrew Uyioghosa Ogbomoide, widely known as Drew Uyi, has thrown his support behind the newly appointed Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, in a bid to revitalise the Nigerian sports industry for enhanced efficiency and performance.

Drew Uyi, based in the UK, expressed confidence in Dikko’s capability to lead the newly established NSC following President Bola Tinubu’s announcement during a Federal Executive Council meeting on Tuesday. The NSC will assume the responsibilities previously held by the Ministry of Sports, a shift that Uyi believes will have significant implications for the development of sports in Nigeria.

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In a conversation with The Guardian from his London residence, Drew Uyi, a well-respected figure in sports management and branding, underscored that Dikko’s leadership will contribute positively to the holistic growth of sports in the country. He noted Dikko’s extensive experience in global sports marketing and administration as crucial assets for his new role.

“I want to congratulate Shehu Dikko on his appointment as Chairman of the National Sports Commission. The Dikko I know is a seasoned administrator and businessman, whose appointment can be likened to a round peg in a round hole. He has been part of the sports community for over two decades and truly understands the industry,” Drew Uyi stated.

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He continued, “This is one appointment by President Bola Tinubu that resonates with all of us in the sports arena. We are excited and optimistic about a significant turnaround for our sports fortunes and our sports stars in the future.”

Dikko rose to prominence as the Chairman of the League Management Company, where he was responsible for managing the Nigerian Professional Football League. Prior to that, he served as a consultant for the Nigerian House of Representatives’ sports committee.

Drew Uyi highlighted Dikko’s advocacy for treating sports as a business, expressing optimism for increased investment in the sector. “I see Shehu Dikko implementing numerous reforms in the sports sector because the potential we have is limitless. We also need to harness the talents of the many young individuals skilled in various sports disciplines,” he added.