Waheed Salaudeen, CEO of Buruj Sports Academy, has called on Nigeria’s sports community to rally behind Shehu Dikko, the recently appointed Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), emphasizing unity over criticism during this critical period.
Salaudeen, who has long been active in youth sports and talent development, stated that sports leaders, athletes, and supporters should focus on moving Nigerian sports forward. Drawing on remarks from international contexts, he highlighted the need for patience and collaboration:
“This is not the time for us to start criticizing. We must all speak one language to elevate our sports,” he stressed.
Dikko’s track record includes initiatives that highlight his vision for sports as both an economic engine and a unifying platform.
His leadership of the League Management Company (LMC) involved partnerships with global organizations, including Spain’s LaLiga, which provided training for Nigerian managers and coaches.
Such partnerships are expected to be a cornerstone of Dikko’s approach to the NSC, with aims to bolster Nigeria’s sports economy, create jobs, and empower the youth through sports.
Supporters of Dikko’s appointment argue that his international network and expertise in football administration make him well-suited to advance Nigerian sports.
Additionally, figures from various sectors believe that Dikko’s business-oriented vision can attract corporate sponsorship, improve infrastructure, and develop a sustainable sports model less reliant on government funding.
Salaudeen urged that instead of criticism, stakeholders should offer constructive suggestions that align with Dikko’s goals, advocating unity across Nigeria’s sports federations.
With his appointment, Dikko faces the immediate challenge of addressing long-standing issues, including limited funding and infrastructure gaps.
The sports community, meanwhile, expresses cautious optimism that under his leadership, the NSC could transform Nigerian sports, positioning the nation as a regional sports leader.
