President Bola Tinubu has said his administration revived the long-dormant National Sports Commission (NSC) to insulate the sports sector from bureaucratic interference and vested interests, stressing its vital role in nation-building and unity.
Tinubu spoke through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the opening ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games Ogun 2024’, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State yesterday.
The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to positioning sports as a tool for national cohesion and development.
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“For decades, sport has placed Nigeria on the global ma—not just in glory, but in grit,” Tinubu stated.
“From medal-winning Olympians to world-renowned footballers, we have nurtured a lineage of excellence that has made every Nigerian walk taller.”
Explaining the rationale for reviving the NSC after nine years of inactivity, the President said the move was intended to foster autonomy and innovation in a sector that continues to bring global recognition to Nigeria.
“We have chosen to shield it from bureaucratic interference and the distractions of vested power interests. We want it to thrive—autonomous, innovative, and focused—because we recognise its critical place in building a healthier, stronger, and more united Nigeria,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, Tinubu described the event not just as a physical contest but as a tribute to his administration’s ‘unrelenting commitment’ to preserving the spirit of sportsmanship and patriotism.
“The choice of Ogun State as host may be geographical, but the excitement it generates resonates across the nation. It is proof that sport remains one of the most powerful forces for national cohesion,” he added.
Tinubu also commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for his outstanding role in hosting the festival, describing the state as ‘a gateway to knowledge, industry, culture, and excellence’, and now, ‘a gateway to greatness.’
Governor Abiodun, in his welcome remarks, said the President’s support for the festival underlined his dedication to sports development, national unity, and youth empowerment.
“Our decision to host this festival stems from the belief that sports is a unifying force and a catalyst for socio-economic development,” the governor stated.
“This festival provides a platform to showcase the resilience and talent of Nigerian youth.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, pledged that the Commission was determined to elevate Nigerian sports to new heights.
He expressed confidence that the festival would produce athletes capable of winning global honours.
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Ogun State’s Commissioner for Sports, Wasil Ishiaka, added that the games would foster a spirit of healthy competition among young people while contributing to community development.
The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial torch, symbolising national unity and the celebration of Nigeria’s diversity.
