Joel Ajayi
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s sports sector through far-reaching reforms, increased investment, and infrastructure development, while praising former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, for laying policies that continue to drive progress in the sector.
Olopade gave the commendation on Tuesday in Abuja during a media briefing held alongside the maiden meeting for the National Intermediate Games, scheduled to take place in Lagos from August 1 to 15, 2026.
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as sustained political will towards sports development, citing policy direction, improved funding, structural reforms, and initiatives aimed at boosting athlete welfare and performance.
According to Olopade, the administration’s commitment to sports is evident from the highest level of leadership. He noted that President Tinubu has made it clear that Nigeria must reclaim its place among leading sporting nations and has backed that vision with the resources needed to achieve it.
“Without the support of Mr. President, we would not have achieved the progress we are seeing today,” he said.
Olopade also commended the staff of the Commission for ensuring continuity and implementation of policies introduced under Sunday Dare’s tenure, noting that many of those reforms remain effective because of the dedication of NSC personnel.
He explained that the Commission’s ongoing reforms are anchored on a broader vision that sees sports beyond competition, positioning it as a viable economic sector capable of creating opportunities for athletes, administrators, journalists, and entrepreneurs within the sports business ecosystem.
On infrastructure, the NSC highlighted ongoing upgrades and rehabilitation of sporting facilities across the country, with special emphasis on Lagos State as a major hub for sports development.
According to the Commission, several facilities are being modernised to international standards to position Nigeria for hosting continental and global sporting events.
