The National Sports Commission (NSC) is set to implement policies aimed at prioritizing the welfare of Nigerian athletes, according to its Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko.
This assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) delegation, led by its President and former Nigerian international, Tijani Babangida.
The delegation included PFAN Secretary-General Edema Fuludu, Clement Temile, Magaji Alhassan Boss, and Mrs. Rotimi Michaels.
Dikko underscored the NSC’s commitment to improving athletes’ welfare in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“What I say to one, I say to all. You are here as representatives of Nigerian footballers, but I will speak to the needs of every Nigerian athlete across all sports. Their welfare will not be toyed with in this administration,” Dikko affirmed.
He elaborated on strategies being implemented to address athletes’ welfare, foster youth empowerment, and leverage sports as a tool for national unity and economic development.
Dikko also highlighted the need for unity among stakeholders in Nigerian sports. He noted that factionalism within the players’ union must be addressed to achieve sustainable growth and success.
“As far back as 2003, I worked towards introducing a pension scheme for professional footballers and athletes in Nigeria—a vision that remains critical under the current NSC agenda,” he said. Dikko called for collaboration and solidarity among stakeholders to strengthen the sports sector.
Earlier, the PFAN delegation congratulated Dikko on his appointment and praised President Tinubu for entrusting him with the leadership of Nigerian sports.
The group urged the Chairman to address factionalism within the players’ union and pledged their support for his transformational reforms.
Dikko reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to advancing Nigerian athletes’ global competitiveness and enhancing their welfare, emphasizing the pivotal role sports play in driving the Renewed Hope Agenda.
