National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to fostering unity and economic development across West Africa using sports as a powerful tool.
Speaking at the opening of the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament at the Velodrome, MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Thursday, Dikko emphasized the significance of sports in regional integration.
“We are particularly honoured that this prestigious event is taking place at a time when the leadership of ECOWAS is being steered by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” Dikko stated. “Under his visionary guidance, ECOWAS continues to champion unity, economic development, and the advancement of sports as a tool for peace and regional cohesion.”
Dikko highlighted the role of sports in empowering the youth and fostering economic growth. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to traditional sports and their potential to create opportunities for young athletes.
“The National Sports Commission remains dedicated to harnessing sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment, regional integration, and economic growth. Through events like this, we provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, earn a living, build camaraderie, and inspire future generations,” he added.
Dikko also linked the tournament to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), which aims to revamp Nigeria’s sports ecosystem. He emphasized that RHINSE focuses on infrastructure development, promoting domestic competitions, and enhancing sports’ economic contributions.
Encouraging sportsmanship, Dikko urged athletes to embrace the spirit of fair play.
“To our esteemed wrestlers, I urge you to compete with passion, fairness, and respect for one another. Beyond the medals and trophies, this tournament represents unity, friendship, and the enduring power of sport to bring people together,” he concluded.
Director-General of NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, echoed the commitment to hosting a world-class tournament that would leave lasting memories for all ECOWAS participants.
“We want our ECOWAS brothers to compete favourably and experience Nigeria’s unique hospitality during this prestigious tournament,” Olopade said.
ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, represented by Amb. Francis Chuks Njoaguani, appreciated President Tinubu for facilitating Nigeria’s first-time hosting of the tournament. She emphasized that the event would strengthen unity within the subregion.
The 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament serves as both a sporting spectacle and a testament to the region’s shared vision of unity, cultural ties, and youth empowerment through sports.
 Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed Nigeria's dedication to fostering unity and economic development){kind=link}