FIFA President Gianni Infantino has voiced strong support for Malam Shehu Dikko’s appointment as Chairman of Nigeria’s newly reestablished National Sports Commission NSC. Infantino’s endorsement, conveyed on October 31, underscored Dikko’s extensive experience and passion for sports as essential assets for leading Nigeria’s sports sector. The announcement came as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration overhauled the country’s sports framework by reintroducing the NSC, which replaces the Federal Ministry of Sports Development.
The reinstatement of the NSC aims to bolster Nigeria’s sports development by enhancing youth involvement, fostering economic growth, and elevating the country’s global sports stature. Dikko, known for his substantial contributions as Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL and Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, also represents Nigeria on the FIFA Football Stakeholders Committee and has served on the FIFA-IFAB Experts Panel.
Ibrahim Musa Gusau, President of the NFF, expressed confidence in Dikko’s leadership, praising his dedication and innovative ideas. The NFF anticipates a collaborative relationship to advance Nigerian sports, particularly football. With backing from FIFA and prominent figures within Nigeria’s sports community, Dikko’s tenure is poised to be influential in empowering athletes and revitalising national pride.
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Editorial
The appointment of Shehu Dikko as the Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission signals a pivotal step for the future of sports in the country. With FIFA’s Gianni Infantino extending commendation and confidence in Dikko’s capabilities, this moment underscores a period of significant opportunity and responsibility. It’s not just a nod from an international body but an assurance that Nigeria’s efforts in sports governance are being recognised on a global scale.
Dikko’s leadership history within Nigeria’s football scene spanning roles from the NPFL chairmanship to international involvement in policy reforms equips him with the insight needed to push for comprehensive reform. His challenge will be to bridge aspirations with practical implementation, driving projects that resonate across youth development, infrastructure enhancement, and international competition.
As observers, we see this as a moment for Nigeria to leverage international partnerships and expertise. The vision laid out under President Tinubu’s administration, coupled with Dikko’s wealth of experience, could well reposition Nigeria as a formidable force in global sports. The real test will be in transforming this support into tangible results that uplift both athletes and the broader sporting community.
Did You Know?
- The National Sports Commission NSC was previously dissolved in 2015, making its reestablishment in 2024 a significant policy shift.
- Shehu Dikko has played a role in numerous FIFA committees, giving him international influence and access to global best practices.
- The NSC’s reinstatement is part of broader reforms aimed at fostering greater youth participation in sports across Nigeria.
- Nigeria’s youth sports programmes have historically produced globally recognised athletes in football, track and field, and basketball.
- Gianni Infantino has visited Nigeria multiple times, reinforcing FIFA’s interest in the country’s sporting development.
