NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko Vows To Collaborate With NAPHER.SD To Address Sports Competency Gaps.
The Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has committed to partnering with the National Association of Physical, Health Education, Research, Sports and Dance (NAPHER.SD) to enhance expertise and professionalism within the sports sector. Dikko made this pledge on Tuesday during a meeting with NAPHER.SD officials at his office in Abuja.
Dikko acknowledged NAPHER.SD’s vital role in advancing Nigeria’s sports landscape, especially their contributions to the development of the NSC Bill. “We must be deliberate in bringing true professionals into various NSC departments, and we will rely on your expertise as strategic partners,” he remarked. Dikko also highlighted the potential of sports as an economic driver, noting, “In the next two years, sports will emerge as one of the fundamental industries of Nigeria’s economy.”
Earlier, Professor Florence Adeyanju, President of NAPHER.SD, outlined key areas where the association could support the NSC, including grassroots sports programmes, talent development, policy advisement, conflict resolution, and promoting gender equity in sports. Adeyanju emphasised the importance of appointing professionally trained personnel to key positions and fostering collaboration between the NSC and the Ministry of Education to maximise sports development.
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including Dr Mohammed Sanusi, NAPHER.SD Vice President; Prof. Franz Atare, Secretary General; and other representatives from both NAPHER.SD and the NSC. The collaboration is expected to address gaps in expertise, support grassroots sports, and ensure sustainable growth within Nigeria’s sports sector.
