By Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi
A year ago, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu revived the National Sports Commission (NSC) and appointed Mallam Shehu Dikko and Mr Bukola Olapade, who serves as the Chairman and Director General respectively, it was more than an institutional restructuring; it was the rebirth of a vision. For many of us who have spent years championing Nigerian sports and athletes, that decision represented a restoration of hope, coordination, and purpose.
Under the leadership of these iconics, we mark one year since that landmark moment, it is clear that the NSC has not only fulfilled its mandate but has ushered in a new era of transformation, excellence, and national pride.
As President of the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC), I have watched with admiration and conviction how the NSC has redefined sports administration through innovative policies, athlete-centered programs, and strategic reforms that touch every level of the sporting pyramid.
This one-year milestone is a moment to celebrate the strides made; not just as statistics of progress, but as stories of renewed confidence in Nigerian sports under the vibrant, sport-driven and visionary leaderships.
In the past twelve months, the NSC, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Mr Bukola Olapade has demonstrated bold leadership and visionary planning.
One of the most significant achievements was the award of hosting rights to Enugu State for the next National Sports Festival, a decision that reflects the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity and regional participation.
Through the establishment of the Elite Athlete Development Podium Board, the NSC has provided a structured platform for our top athletes to receive world-class training, mentorship, and preparation ahead of major international competitions.
Equally transformative is the Invited Junior Athlete (IJA) Program, which has opened a new pathway for discovering and nurturing young talents from schools and communities across Nigeria. This investment in the future of sports is matched by administrative reforms, such as the introduction of Chief Operating Officers (COOs) across federations and the realignment of Secretary Generals, both aimed at improving professionalism, transparency, and operational efficiency.
On the global stage, the creation of the Presidential Support Group for the World Cup reflects a renewed partnership between government and stakeholders, ensuring that our national teams receive the necessary support to excel.
Nigeria also made history by hosting the 13th ECOWAS Traditional Wrestling Tournament for the first time in the event’s 13-year existence; a milestone that highlights the country’s capacity to lead Africa in sports diplomacy and cultural celebration.
In the area of policy and integrity, the signing of the Anti-Doping Bill stands as a bold statement of Nigeria’s commitment to clean and fair competition, aligning our systems with international best practices. Complementing this is the Athletes Support and Training Grant, which provides direct funding and welfare support for athletes; a long-awaited initiative that finally places their needs at the heart of national sports policy.
Perhaps one of the most visionary frameworks introduced by the Commission is the RHINSE Agenda; Reform, Harmonize, Integrate, Nurture, Sustain, and Empower, a strategic blueprint that drives the Commission’s reform journey and sets measurable standards for growth.
The NSC also made landmark strides in digital and youth-oriented sports through the establishment of the Nigeria E-Sport Federation and the Gaming Industry Development Initiative (GIDI), recognizing the economic and creative potential of gaming as a driver of innovation and youth empowerment.
Furthermore, the NSC has prioritized capacity building for sports administrators, ensuring that leadership and management at all levels reflect competence, discipline, and vision.
The appointment of a new Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, also marks a turning point in Nigeria’s football narrative; one that symbolizes accountability, fresh thinking, and renewed ambition.
This first year of the National Sports Commission’s rebirth has proven that Nigerian sports can indeed thrive under purposeful leadership.
It has shown what is possible when passion meets structure, when athletes are given a voice, and when government policy aligns with the people’s aspirations.
On behalf of the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club, I, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi extend warm congratulations to the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Director General, Mr Bukola Olapade and entire team of the NSC for their unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more united sporting nation.
We at ANFASSC remain steadfast partners in progress; ready to support, celebrate, and amplify every effort that uplifts our athletes and brings pride to the green and white flag.
This is not just a one-year anniversary; it is the beginning of a renaissance.
The National Sports Commission has set the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive future for Nigerian sports, and as we look ahead, we do so with pride, hope, and an unshakable belief in the greatness that lies ahead.
Prince Abayomi Ogunjim is the President, Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC)
