By Joel Ajayi
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has explained that the generous rewards recently given to Nigerian athletes by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are part of a strategic effort to build a sustainable and prosperous future for sports in Nigeria.
Mallam Dikko made this known on Tuesday at the Nest Resource Centre in Abuja, where he served as the Guest of Honour at an event organized by the National Youth Leader of All Progressive Congress APC Dr Dayo Israel
The event, aimed at engaging Nigerian youth under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, encouraged young Nigerians to see sports as a viable and rewarding career path. According to Dikko, the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader objective of using sports as a tool to curb restiveness, crime, and unemployment among youths across the country.
“This is the principle Mr. President stands for — if he believes in something, he follows through and does it,” Dikko said.
He emphasized that the recent rewards given to athletes are not merely symbolic but reflect the government’s genuine commitment to recognizing excellence and investing in the future of Nigerian sports.
“The reason athletes now go the extra mile is because they know their efforts are truly valued. When athletes feel appreciated, they give more. What President Tinubu is doing is not just about rewards — he is laying a solid foundation for the future of Nigerian sports.”
Dikko noted that the President’s gesture has inspired a renewed spirit among athletes. According to him, every Nigerian athlete now understands that “if you do the right thing, Nigeria is behind you.” He added that this new mindset is fostering a culture where talent is nurtured and success becomes inevitable.
He stressed that the era of neglecting athletes is over, affirming that President Tinubu is fully committed to the welfare and development of sportsmen and women across the nation.
“We are already working on a National Sports Development Framework — a structured and transparent system to guide our athletes, coaches, and stakeholders,” he announced.
Dikko further explained, Under this new system of Renewed hope initiative, athletes will be able to set clear goals and follow a defined pathway to achieve success.
He concluded by reaffirming the Federal Government’s long-term vision for sports in Nigeria:
“We are building a culture that values principle, discipline, and performance. This is not just about winning medals — it’s about giving every Nigerian athlete a fair shot at greatness. I am proud to be part of this vision alongside the President. And truly, this is just the beginning.”
