We came prepared to reposition sports, says Dikko

Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), 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 said that he came very prepared for the job.

Speaking in Abuja while addressing journalists after a novelty match played in his honour between Team Dikko and Team Nigeria at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Dikko emphasised 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.

He said: “We came in very prepared for the job. 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.”

He outlined that under his leadership, the Commission has a clear roadmap and strategy to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Assuring that all stakeholders are on board to ensure the successful realisation of this vision, Dikko added: “Our plans and roadmap are already in place. 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, who 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.

Also speaking, NSC Director-General, Bukola Olapade, 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.

Olapade 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.

He said: “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.

“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.”