Abuja: Mr. Philip Shaibu, Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), has called for greater synergy between the Institute and the National Sports Commission (NSC). Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, Shaibu highlighted the lack of collaboration among key organisations responsible for the development of sports in the country.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Shaibu emphasized that the NSC, NIS, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are legally recognised entities that should work collaboratively. He stated, “Among the agencies recognised by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through various bills, are the NSC, NIS, and the NFF. These are the three main parastatals recognised in the sports sector, especially with the suspension of the Federal Ministry of Sports.” Shaibu lamented that there is currently no coordination among these critical arms of the sports sector, and noted that meetings have not been held since he assumed his role. He underscored his attempts
to bring these bodies together to address issues affecting sports in Nigeria.
The former Edo deputy governor mentioned progress in collaboration with the NFF, although engagement with the NSC has been challenging. “Just last week, we had a breakthrough meeting with the NFF. We are now almost 90 percent aligned, and our technical teams are already working together,” Shaibu said. However, he noted that responses from the NSC have been less encouraging, but he remains undeterred in his efforts to ensure Nigeria maintains its top sports position in Africa.
Shaibu also called for the immediate constitution of the NSC board, stating that the current management by two individuals is against the law. He compared the situation to a government operating without a legislature and stressed the need for the board to ensure effective sports management and proper checks and balances. He pledged to continue advocating for the right actions in the sports sector, driven by his passion for sports and commitment to giving back
.
Additionally, Shaibu introduced Nigeria’s first certified medical director for marathon races, criticising the country’s former reliance on expatriates for technical expertise in organising marathon events. He announced, “For a long time, we have not had a Nigerian certified as a medical director for marathon races. Today, we now have one, who recently returned from Spain after completing his training.”
Dr. Sam Ogbondeminu, the newly certified medical director, expressed gratitude to the NIS and stakeholders for their support in achieving his certification, which marks a significant step in the development of local expertise in Nigerian sports.