FLASH POINT

By Sani Abdullahi (Walin Gunduman Makera)


I read Comrade Philip Shaibu’s remarks in Okpekpe with respect. As Director General of the National Institute for Sports, an institution under the National Sports Commission, his passion for sports development is evident. The  NSC Chairman share that same passion too.

Regarding the governing board, I want to state clearly to all stakeholders, including our brother at NIS, that patience and trust in the process will serve Nigerian sports better.

Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko understands the urgency. He also understands the weight of responsibility. The board is not being delayed out of reluctance. It is being prepared properly, because the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves a foundation that will last, not one that is rushed.

Institutions are built on due process, not pressure. Every name, every mandate, every structure is being reviewed to ensure the board that will be inaugurate can truly drive sports forward for the next decade. That care is respect for the President’s vision, and respect for Nigerian athletes.

The NSC is not idle while we wait. The doors of the Chairman of the NSC are open, programs are running, and athletes are being supported. A board will make NSC stronger, yes. But the work has not stopped.

So to Comrade Shaibu, and to all lovers of Nigerian sports, let us choose unity over urgency. Let us allow the Chairman and the Director General the space to get this right. When the board is inaugurated, Nigerians will see why patience was worth it.

Sports will win. Nigeria will win.

Abdullahi, a sports administrator writes from Kaduna