Stakeholders in Nigerian sports continue to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing Mallam Shehu Dikko as Chairman and Hon. Bukola Olopade as Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The latest wave of commendations came at the Newstap/SWAN Five-Star Awards held at Eko Club, Lagos, where industry leaders expressed confidence in the new leadership.
Speaking after receiving an award for excellence, renowned playing surface expert Ebi Egbe ‘Monimichelle’ dedicated his award to the NSC, emphasizing that the appointments were widely accepted.
“For the first time, an appointment is being hailed by everyone. Usually, there are criticisms, but this time, everyone applauded. Mallam Dikko and Hon. Olopade will surely fix our sports,” he said.
Egbe further expressed optimism that the new NSC leadership would address Nigeria’s deplorable sporting infrastructure, lamenting that the country currently has only one FIFA-certified pitch in Uyo.
The Group Managing Director of GTI Group, Abubakar Lawal, praised the duo’s expertise, stating, “NSC under Dikko is taking Nigerian sports to another level. His track record from his time as LMC Chairman speaks volumes, and with Hon. Olopade, it’s a game-changing partnership.”
Similarly, George Aluo, Editor-in-Chief of Newstap Communications and Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL), lauded President Tinubu’s vision.
“For the first time, a sports appointment has been made without any opposition. We gave out awards tonight, but the biggest award should go to President Tinubu for making these appointments. Mark my words—sports will play a key role in his re-election because Nigerians are taking note of the positive changes,” Aluo stated.
In his remarks, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to delivering podium performances and developing Nigerian sports into a thriving sector.
“We are not here to boast about our plans, but our vision aligns with discovering, nurturing, and supporting athletes to reach their full potential,” Dikko stated.
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, adding that the best way to repay stakeholders’ confidence is through performance and delivering a sustainable sports ecosystem that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
