The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has vowed that the Commission will assist all Nigerian sports teams that are participating on the continental level.
This statement was made by Dikko during a visit to his Moshood Abiola National Stadium headquarters in Abuja on Thursday by Nwankwo Kanu, the chairman of Enyimba FC and a former Super Eagles player.
Dikko expressed happiness at the club’s heritage and emphasised the need for technical, logistical, and maybe financial support to help Nigerian teams succeed and bring honour to the country, citing Enyimba FC’s legacy as Nigeria’s pride in African football.
“It’s time to change the narrative on the continent for every sport, not only football—we can’t sit back. For teams in different sports that qualify for continental competitions, they should be provided with more robust technical, logistical, and possibly financial support from the Commission and their federations, as their success will bring glory to the entire nation,” Dikko stated
“For Enyimba FC, the standard has been set very high by the previous administrators of the club. You have a duty to maintain that standard and build on what you’ve met, and we’re sure you’re succeeding. Enyimba still holds Nigeria’s flag on the continent, and we’re proud of the club’s heritage.”
As part of his vision for motivating Nigerian athletes, Dikko suggested that teams qualifying for continental events should receive a presidential handshake from the outset.
“Part of the motivation system is for us to ensure any contingent that qualifies for the continent gets a presidential handshake. This move will place our teams at the heart of the presidency, creating awareness that will attract government, private, and corporate support,” he explained.
He also called on former athletes to contribute to the development of grassroots sports.
Dikko added: “Rally your colleagues and ex-internationals. Many of them benefited from grassroots development; it’s time to rebuild that system and support the next generation.”
Dikko added: “Rally your colleagues and ex-internationals. Many of them benefited from grassroots development; it’s time to rebuild that system and support the next generation.”
“We’re congratulating you, Dikko, and Nigerians are happy with your appointment. We’re confident we’ll see progress,” Kanu said.
“A sports legend who cannot give back to the nation or society cannot be called a true legend.
“On behalf of Super Eagles legends, I assure you of our 150% support for your vision. We want to build on the progress we’ve made.”
The remarks from both Dikko and Kanu underscore a shared commitment to advancing Nigerian sports, reinforcing national pride, and strengthening support for grassroots development as well as teams on the international stage.
