Gateway Games a major improvement from previous editions - Shehu Dikko

...IJA initiative excites us, it represents the future
By Mishael Emmanuel in Abeokuta
   
   
  
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, had some kind words for the Main Organizing Committee (MOC), of the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), currently taking place in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
 
Mallam Shehu Dikko at the World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Secretariat, commended the State Government for its outstanding hosting of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games.
 
He said that the ongoing festival was a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria. He also called on other states bidding to host future editions of the sports feast to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun State.

Dikko said that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival.

"This festival is a major improvement from previous editions, It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games."

Dikko emphasized that the Commission under the stewardship of Chief Bukola Olopade, in line with the President's directive, is working to transform sports into a key economic driver. 
 
“We are building a sports economy—beyond the games, we are looking at job creation, the value chain, and revenue generation. Ogun’s example is now motivating other states to step forward and host,” he stated.

He mentioned that the NSC is developing a national calendar that will set November and December as the fixed months for hosting the festival, and is working on a sustainable strategy to attract private sector sponsorship.

Highlighting the President’s passion for grassroots sports, Dikko praised the inclusion of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA).
 
“The IJA initiative excites us because it represents the future. These young talents, selected from youth games, are being nurtured to become tomorrow’s champions."

The Chairman said that these junior athletes, along with selected elite athletes, will represent Nigeria in the upcoming African Youth Games. He added that 65 athletes are currently benefiting from the "Adopt-An-Athlete" initiative under private sector funding, managed by the Elite Athletes Development Podium Committee.

Dikko also announced a partnership with the Ministry of Education to revive school sports. This plan includes establishing sports programs in primary and unity schools across all local governments, and creating "universities of excellence" in each geopolitical zone to support students with athletic potential.

Dikko vowed that only credible individuals committed to sports development would be allowed to lead sports federations. Adding that the “Commission will not tolerate non-performing presidents who contribute little to nothing.”

He also applauded the Federal Government for approving the Olympic and Commonwealth Games preparation budget—a first in Nigeria’s sporting history. Reiterating that federation funds would focus on sports where Nigeria has a competitive edge.

Dikko concluded by thanking the media for their fair coverage and revealed plans to enhance media facilities for future festivals. He also announced plans to expand the Commission’s online presence to improve visibility and coverage.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Chief Bukola Olopade, assuring that the Commission noted some issues at this edition of the biennial multi-sport event, promising improved infrastructure and facilities in future editions of the games.
 
OUR COVERAGE OF THE 22ND NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL IS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY EMMANUEL EGBELE.

★ EMMANUEL EGBELE is the initiator of one of the most prestigious scrabble competitions in Nigeria - the Emmanuel Egbele Annual Scrabble Tournament (EEAST).

Emmanuel Egbele Annual Scrabble Tournament (EEAST), made its grand entry into the Nigeria scrabble circuit in 2021.
 
Support FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG
   
We Need Your Assistance To Provide Quality Reports All The Time.

FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG's news team is made up of journalists and editors, who are constantly working to provide new and accurate stories to its readers
   
PLEASE, Donate To Assist FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG In Our Quest To Provide Unbiased News Coverage. 
   
Account Number:
4011061428
Account Name: 
First Zealmediacast Ltd
Bank: Fidelity Bank Plc
  
Your support allows us to continue delivering quality journalism that is accessible to audiences across the globe. Every contribution, however big or small, is valuable for our mission and readers.
 
You can reach us on: 08037184353
WhatsApp number: 08155786809
Email us with your story:
firstzealmediacast@gmail.com

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

National Sports Commission reassigns Federations and Associations Secretary Generals

Image
...Rita Mosindi of athIetics moved to NSF/PARA, Peter Njoku of Basketball now to serve as Zonal Coordinator South-South  ...Ejiro Thukson of scrabble now in chess as Ikhana Mbora leaves Lagos to serve as Deputy Director, Federation - FEAD By Maxwell Kumoye      The National Sports Commission (NSC), has reassigned Secretary Generals of the various National Sports Federations and Associations. Rita Mosindi of AthIetics has been moved to NSF/PARA, Peter Njoku of Basketball is now the Coordinator of the NSC in the South-South zone, in Benin. While the scribe of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), Mrs Ejiro Thukson has been moved to the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF). AthIetics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), will now be handled by Inwang Israel Mfon, formerly with Mixed Martial Arts.  Olalekan Faseesin of Teqball takes over Boxing Federation from Dapo Akinyele and Anusa Agoga Victor of Wheelchair Tennis Federation is now the scribe of Nigeria Scrabble Fe...
Read more

Hammer thrower Falana vows to rule Africa

Image
 By Mishael Emmanuel         Gabon’s national hammer record holder, Kenza Falana, is certain that her time to rule the spotlight and make headlines is now. It’s a medal within reach for the young Gabonese hammer thrower who was selected to represent her country at the CAA U-18/20 Championship, holding in Abeokuta, Ogun State, South-West, Nigeria. The 18-year-old who broke into the international stage a year ago at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, added that she is looking to revive the spirit of unity, commitment and collaboration — to back rising athletes in Africa. Speaking before silver-finish at the biennial championship, Falana said she was ready to rule the continent as soon as possible. She said: “I think it finally my chance with what I’m doing this Championships. I’ve been thinking of it this past year, thinking it would be such an opportunity to travel to Nigeria and even win a gold medal,” Falana stated in an interview with First ZealMe...
Read more

Springsoca United Academy kicks off new season with intensive training

Image
By Mishael Emmanuel with additional reports by Akeem Busari One of the the fastest-growing youth football institution in the city of Lagos, Springsoca United Academy, has officially announced the commencement of its 2025/2026 football season, beginning on Saturday, the 6th of September, 2025.    The Youth Academy has introduced new training mandates aimed at strengthening discipline, performance, and player development. The management of the football Academy stated that participants in the U-13 Teams will now train twice weekly, while U-15 Teams and older will engage in three weekly sessions. This structure is designed to improve fitness levels, tactical awareness, and long-term development. The management also confirmed the introduction of brand new training kits, which will be the official match outwear for all players this season.   The Director, Springsoca Academy, Mr Oladapo Emmanuel stressed that, "The vision has always been to raise players, who are no...
Read more