A delegation from the National Institute for Sports (NIS) led by its Registrar, Mr. Belmond Benson, has expressed satisfaction with sports facilities in Kwara State, saying the state has the potential to host an NIS office.
The delegation, which was on an inspection tour of facilities in the state to assess their suitability for coaching education and professional programmes, commended the state government for its investment in sports infrastructure, particularly the indoor sports hall, swimming pool and ongoing renovations.
Benson said the NIS, under the leadership of its Director-General, Comrade Philip Shaibu, is committed to training coaches, sports administrators and identifying talents for national and international competitions.
He noted that Kwara could become the first state outside Lagos to host an NIS office, subject to necessary arrangements, but stressed the need for proper maintenance of the facilities. He also lauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his commitment to sports development and praised the state’s grassroots initiatives, including early involvement of children in sports.
Also speaking, Dr. Remu Majoroh said an NIS office in Kwara would enable games masters, physical and health education teachers and other sports personnel to access professional training and certification without travelling to Lagos or Abuja, thereby enhancing early talent identification and development.
In his response, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to consider hosting major national team fixtures, including Super Eagles and Super Falcons qualifiers, in the state, citing its adequate facilities and strong grassroots football structure.
He said the state has age-grade teams from U-13 to U-16 and a youth league designed to develop young players.
The proposed office, if established, is expected to expand access to professional sports education and strengthen coaching capacity in Kwara and neighbouring states.
