Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), joined African Ministers of Sports, UNESCO Anti-Doping Convention officials, stakeholders, and global sports experts at the Interregional African Ministerial Meeting held in Banjul, Gambia.
The gathering focused on strengthening sports governance in Africa, promoting regional cooperation, ethics, integrity, anti-doping programs, and enhancing the continent’s position in the global sports ecosystem.
As a panelist and speaker, Dikko delivered a presentation titled “Building the Legacy of Major Sports Events.” He shared insights from his three decades of experience, emphasizing Nigeria’s strategic objectives under the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE).
The initiative aims to transform Nigerian sports into an economically productive, development-oriented industry. He highlighted plans to upgrade sports infrastructure, attract major event hosting rights, and bolster Nigeria’s global sports influence.
Dikko outlined the RHINSE framework, which seeks to transition Nigerian sports from a competition-driven structure to one centered on value creation and economic impact.
The initiative aims to establish sports as a key driver of Nigeria’s economy while leveraging its social benefits. His presentation received widespread approval, with meeting participants commending Nigeria’s efforts and pledging support.
In his remarks, Dikko expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing sports development by declaring it a national asset and providing unprecedented support.
On the sidelines, Dikko engaged with Rodney Swigelaar, Director of WADA Africa, and Travis Tygard, CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-doping framework.
Discussions included updates on the Nigeria Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) Bill and plans to establish a world-class anti-doping laboratory in Nigeria by 2025 to serve Africa. Both parties committed to providing technical and financial support.
Dikko also met with Amb. Minata Samara Cessounma, Africa Union Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, to discuss enhancing the operations of the African Union Sports Council Region II, headquartered in Nigeria.
Preliminary discussions included the possibility of Nigeria bidding to host the 2031 African Games and other collaborative initiatives to advance sports development across Africa.
The meeting included interactions with Gambian President Adama Barrow, Vice President, and Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Badjie. Dikko reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to creating sustainable frameworks for sports development.
He concluded, “The NSC will continue engaging with global stakeholders to boost sports development in Nigeria, creating a sustainable sports economy in line with President Tinubu’s vision.”
