Mallam Shehu Dikko, the newly appointed Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), recently declared that Nigeria has officially embarked on its journey to establish a sustainable sports economy. This announcement marks a significant step towards transforming the sports landscape in the country.
During a brief ceremony held in Abuja, Dikko received the responsibilities of national sports affairs from the former Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh. This transition highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing the sports sector and its economic potential.
Reflecting on his past involvement, Dikko noted that in 2008, he served as a consultant to the House of Representatives, where he played a crucial role in drafting the National Sports Commission bill. Now, 16 years later, he finds himself in a position to implement the plans he once helped create.
Dikko emphasized that the President’s vision is to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s sports economy. He stressed the need for a shift in mindset, moving away from a narrow focus on competitions and medal counts. Instead, he advocates for a foundational approach to sports development.
According to Dikko, establishing a solid foundation is essential for achieving success in sports. He believes that when the groundwork is laid properly, positive results and victories will naturally follow, reflecting a new perspective on sports in Nigeria.\
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He pointed out that the current cycle of merely competing must be broken. From the outset, a different strategy is required. Dikko, along with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, views competition primarily as consumption rather than a sustainable model for growth.
To foster a thriving sports economy, Dikko insists on returning to the principles of production and sports development. This involves creating a structured framework and setting appropriate parameters to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
The administration’s focus will be on three key pillars. One of these pillars is treating sports as a national asset, which will be entitled to special privileges, regulations, and concessions. This approach aims to elevate the importance of sports within the national agenda.
Additionally, Dikko highlighted the necessity of working on foundational aspects and regulations that will enable the industry to flourish. He drew parallels with the communications industry, which experienced significant growth due to effective regulatory frameworks in the past.
In conclusion, Dikko’s vision for the NSC is clear: by prioritizing sports development and establishing a robust infrastructure, Nigeria can cultivate a vibrant sports economy that benefits all stakeholders involved.
