By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has lauded President Bola Tinubu, for approving the comprehensive renovation and redevelopment of key sports facilities across Nigeria.
Shaibu described the approval as a landmark decision that will significantly transform the nation’s sports sector by enhancing athlete development, strengthening sports administration, and improving Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
The former Deputy Governor of Edo State particularly welcomed the approval for the renovation of the NIS 200-bed athletes’ and coaches’ hostel located within Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
According to him, the project will greatly boost the institute’s capacity to train athletes, coaches, sports administrators, and technical personnel.
“This development is highly commendable and timely.
The renovation of critical sports infrastructure, especially the NIS 200-bed athletes’ and coaches’ hostel, will greatly enhance our operations and improve our ability to deliver quality training programmes in a conducive environment,” Shaibu stated.
He further praised President Tinubu for demonstrating a strong commitment to youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, and sustainable sports development through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shaibu also acknowledged the efforts of the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, for his dedication towards ensuring the successful execution of the projects.
“I must sincerely appreciate Hon. Bukola Olopade for his commitment to making these laudable projects a reality.
His efforts reflect a genuine passion for the growth and modernization of Nigerian sports,” he said.
The NIS boss noted that the approvals underscore the importance of collaboration among stakeholders within the sports ecosystem, emphasizing that meaningful progress can only be achieved through synergy, institutional support, and effective coordination.
“This is the kind of collaboration I have consistently advocated for since assuming office.
The future of Nigerian sports depends on our collective ability to work together towards common goals.
When institutions collaborate effectively, the benefits will be evident in athlete performance, infrastructure development, talent discovery, and sports economy growth,” Shaibu added.
He also reiterated the need for the full constitution of the National Sports Commission Board in line with the law establishing the commission, stressing that such a move would strengthen policy coordination, strategic planning, and institutional synergy.
While clarifying that Alhaji Shehu Dikko currently serves as Chairman of the NSC and Hon. Bukola Olopade remains the Director General and Secretary of the Board, Shaibu explained that his call was for the complete constitution of the board as stipulated by law.
“All that I am saying is for the Board of the NSC to be constituted according to the law that established it, for better policy direction and a stronger Nigerian sports ecosystem,” he stated.
Shaibu expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms and investments in sports infrastructure would usher in a new era for Nigerian sports and create sustainable opportunities for young talents across the country.
