World News Update

The National Sports Commission, NSC, has described the demise of former Kano Pillars Chairman Alhaji Abba Yola as a painful loss to the Country's Sports family. The Kano born Sports administrator was a retired Assistant director in the Sports Ministry and also a former chief of staff to former Sports Minister Hon. Sunday Dare, amongst other high profile positions he held in the country's Sports corridor. Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko described Alhaji Abba Yola as a personal friend whose loss is shocking and painful.   The Chairman said "Alhaji Abba Yola is a sports administrator Per Excellence and he contributed immensely to the growth of Nigerian sports when he was at the Sports Commission, then the Ministry of Sports.  "He will truly be missed because he was a personal friend and his vast and rich experience in the administration of Sports is well documented.We interfaced very well when he was the Chairman of Kano Pillars but we...

 _As Team Nigeria Para- contingents smash 19 medals at African Grand Prix in Tunisia_  The Para-Olympics Committee of Nigeria, PCN, has ascribed the  recent success of Team Nigeria at the Para Grand Prix in Tunisia to the intentional support the National Sports Commission, NSC, is giving to the country's Para-Sports. These were the remarks of the PCN President, Sunday Odebode, as he revelled in the performance of the country's Para-athletes in Tunisia, where Nigeria finished second overall out of 42 countries that featured at the competition. " The NSC under the leadership of the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon Bukola Olopade, has taken the support given to people living with disabilities to another level". " We have never had it this good in the past where the Commission is not only supporting us financially but also assisting us in every technical way to succeed both with our international competitions and domestic ones". "...

Preparations for the highly anticipated 23rd National Sports Festival, tagged “Coal City Games Enugu 2026” have taken a significant leap forward as the Enugu State Government officially inaugurated the Festival’s Local Organizing Committee (LOC) on Wednesday in Enugu.  The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, commended the Enugu State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah for his swift action and commitment to hosting a successful festival. “With the inauguration of this high-powered Local Organizing Committee, we are confident that the Coal City Games Enugu 2026 will raise the bar in excellence, inclusion, and legacy. The caliber of individuals on this committee reflects the seriousness with which Enugu is approaching this national assignment. The National Sports Commission is fully aligned and will provide all necessary support to ensure a seamless festival that inspires hope, talent discovery, and national unity,” Hon. Olopade stated....

The National Sports commission has congratulated Joshua Aiyenuro Babatunde for setting a new record for the longest professional hairdressing marathon which he just concluded at the velodrome of the Abuja National stadium. Tjosh as he is popularly called embarked on the record breaking mission on the 10th of June 2025 and finished on Tuesday, June 17th 2025. Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko alongside the Director General of the sports commission , Hon Bukola Olopade, were amongst some of the top dignitaries that visited him during the exercise to cheer and motivate him. The NSC Chairman said this is another example of the true spirit of the Nigerian youths which is the reason President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has continually prioritised the capacity building of the Nigerian Youth. " I am not surprised with this latest feat coming from another Nigerian youth because our youthful population are the most resilient, dogged and hardworking in the world". " I want to s...

 _Unveils its competition apparel to the National Sports Commission_  The Nigerian American Football Association ( NAFA ) has unveiled its competition apparel to the National Sports Commission, NSC, as it gets set to depart for the inaugural IFAF Africa Flag Football continental Games in Egypt billed for the 20-21 of June 2025. In a brief but significant ceremony, the President of NAFA, Babajide Akeredolu, unveiled the jerseys the team will be using in Egypt to the Director General of the NSC, Hon Bukola Olopade on Tuesday, as the DG charged the team to do the country proud and return with flying colours. "On this trip to Egypt I wish you guys well and I am more encouraged that you guys are very confident that our women team will win Gold. I am also very fascinated that you are taking U13 to this tournament.It's inline with the Commission's renewed hope vision to also start building for the future". "I must also thank you and your team for the kind of aggressive ...

The countdown has officially begun as Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, braces itself to welcome the continent’s future stars for the 3rd African U18 and U20 Athletics Championships, now just 30 days away. Scheduled to hold at the newly upgraded MKO Abiola International Stadium, the championship promises to be a spectacle of speed, strength, and emerging talent. Over 50 countries are expected to participate in this prestigious event, with national contingents beginning to arrive from July 12. The championship will take place from July 16-20, 2025. The Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) has given full endorsement to the facilities, certifying Abeokuta as ready and capable of hosting the continent’s best young athletes.  All eyes will be on Nigeria as it sets the stage for a new generation of stars, poised to follow in the footsteps of national legends like Falilat Ogunkoya, Mary Onyali, Olusoji Fasuba, Deji Aliyu, and Yusuf Alli — all of whom first shone on similar junior s...

NATIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT PRESS RELEASE National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko has reiterated the importance of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) in the actualization of the Commission's vision to reset, reform and relaunch Nigerian sports. Mallam Dikko spoke while welcoming the newly appointed Director-General of NIS His Excellency Comr. Philip Shuaibu to the NSC Headquarters.  Comr. Shuaibu was at the NSC Headquarters to inform the NSC Chairman of his resumption while both parties held discussions on how to deliver on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR's mandate. The NSC Chairman applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the appointment of Comr. Shuaibu.  His words, "I must thank most sincerely President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for once again taking the road less traveled with this appointment. Mr. President is embarking on a reform. He is resetting many sectors including sports so there is need to take decisions t...

 _Reconciles aggrieved parties for overall interest of Nigerian Sports_  The National Association of Women in Sports ( NAWIS ) has commended the Leadership role of the National Sports Commission, NSC, following the election of Ex Nigerian athlete, Fatima Yusuf- Olukoju as NAWIS representative into the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN. After the conduct of the NAWIS election that took place in Abuja on Monday, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, held a reconciliatory meeting with the Association and the principal contestants in the polls, Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju and veteran Sports journalist Nneka Anibeze to iron out grey areas that must have arisen from the outcome of the elections. The election conducted by NAWIS saw Yusuf-Olukoju beating Anibeze in the polls but both have now decided to forge a common front and work together for the overall interest of the Girl Child and Women empowerment in Nigerian Sports. A delighted Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju sa...

 PRESS RELEASE With just 35 days to go, Nigeria is revving up preparations to host the 3rd edition of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) African Junior Athletics Championship, scheduled to take place from July 16 to 20, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Returning to Nigerian soil, the prestigious biennial event will welcome the continent’s most promising Under-18 and Under-20 athletes to the newly refurbished MKO Abiola International Stadium, which recently played host to the 22nd National Sports Festival. Over 500 athletes from more than 50 African nations are expected to compete in this year’s championship, making it one of the largest gatherings of young athletic talent on the continent.  South Africa, the reigning overall champions, will be looking to defend their title, but Nigeria’s young stars are also eager to make a strong statement on home soil. “This is not just a competition; it is a celebration of Africa’s future in track and field,” Hon. Bukola Olopade, DG...

The Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) has formally inaugurated two vital committees —the Election Petitions Committee and the Election Appeals Committee—as part of its strategic effort to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in the conduct of sports federation elections. In line with international standards and its renewed commitment to excellence in sports governance, the leadership of the NSC selected respected legal professionals, administrators, and media practitioners with exceptional track records to serve on these committees.  *Members of the Election Petitions Committee* *Barrister Denen Ikyaa (Chairman)* Barr. Ikyaa is ahighly respected legal professional and sports ethics expert. He currently serves as a member of the Ethics Committee of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport. He is also a former member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Appeals Committee, where he played an instrumental role in adjudicati...

 _Pays glowing tribute to his achievements as a true boxing legend_  The National Sports Commission has described the death of boxing legend Obisia "Golden gloves" Nwakpa as an irreplaceable loss to the Country's Sports. The news of Nwakpa's demise filtered in on wednesday when his family confirmed that he gave up the ghost on Tuesday. The NSC described Nwakpa as a true patriot of Nigerian sports who practically gave his entire life to the growth of Nigerian boxing - from his days as an athlete to his time as a National coach. Chairman of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, said Nigeria has lost a legend in Obisia 'Golden gloves' Nwakpa. " Obisia Nwakpa represents every example any top athlete should emulate - from his dedication, patriotism and discipline during his days in the ring".  " Everywhere he goes he represents the resilient Nigerian spirit that made him a dominant force on the continent in the lightweight division...

The statement from a factional Afenifere group raises serious concerns about a penchant and deliberate attempt to find faults and trade in deceit instead of objectivity. The group has found it challenging to accept that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s comeback story is firmly underway. The rebellious Afenifere claims that President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s performance over the past two years has witnessed a regression in human development, economic mismanagement, and democratic backsliding. This is a jaundiced view, echoing the view of opposition politicians, one of whom the group supported in the 2023 election. A balanced assessment based on available data reveals a more objective and progressive picture, with significant achievements amid the challenges expected from a country like Nigeria with decades-old problems. Beyond its confounding conclusions based on prejudice, the statement raises the following issues. With the ensuing point-by-point ...

The 22nd National Sports Festival, also called Gateway Games 2024, will be remembered not only for the medals and milestones but for its atmosphere, excellence, and enduring legacy. More than just a competition, it became a celebration of unity, talent, and what’s possible when vision meets execution. Held from May 16 to 31 across Ogun State, the festival was a vibrant blend of elite performance, grassroots inclusion, and cultural pride. Abeokuta transformed into a beating heart of national excitement, where athletes, fans, and communities came together under a shared banner of excellence and joy. At the core of this triumph was the unquestionable commitment of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. His determination to leave a lasting legacy translated into the full renovation of the historic MKO Abiola Stadium and significant upgrades to the state’s sporting infrastructure. His leadership ensured that every detail—from logistics to athlete experience—was thoughtfully addressed. Th...

Nigerian-born midfielder Paul Salami stole the spotlight with a sensational hat-trick as he powered his side to a commanding 3-0 victory over the Melbourne Sharks in Week 9 of the Australian U23 League. The 21-year-old dynamo opened the scoring in the 20th minute, finishing confidently after a swift counter-attack. The match took a dramatic turn in the 40th minute when Sharks defender Liam Mastos was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge, leaving the hosts to battle with 10 men. Salami continued to torment the undermanned Sharks, striking again in the 52nd minute with a precise finish after a well-worked team move. He capped off his brilliant performance with a third goal in the 75th minute, completing his hat-trick in style and securing all three points for his team. A composed and creative presence in midfield, Salami’s performance was a showcase of skill, intelligence, and clinical finishing. His hat-trick not only earned him the match ball but also reaffirmed his growi...

Following its earlier expression of condolences, a high-level delegation from the National Sports Commission (NSC) has concluded a condolence visit to the Government and people of Kano State, as well as families of victims of the tragic road accident involving members of the state’s contingent returning from the 2024 National Sports Festival. Led by Director of Finance Alamin Mustapha, alongside Director of Facilities Muhammed Rabiu and Special Assistant on Special Duties and Protocol Kawu Ahmed Muazu, the delegation delivered a personal message of sympathy on behalf of NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade. “We came not just to mourn, but to stand with you in person,” said Mr. Mustapha. “Having met with some of the grieving families, we leave with heavier hearts but a firmer resolve to ensure that their pain is not in vain.” The NSC reiterated its earlier commitment to fast-track a more strict national safety protocol for sporting contingents. This i...

 _as NSC DG attends the games strategic seminar in Riyadh_  The National Sports Commission, NSC, has reaffirmed its commitment and readiness to attend the 6th Islamic solidarity Games billed for Saudi Arabia from the 7-21 of November 2025. And as part of preparations for the games, the NSC Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade is currently attending a two day seminar in Riyadh as the Chef de Mission for Team Nigeria. The seminar will afford all participating countries the opportunity to get acquainted with the games new guidelines and modules operandi. The Director General departed the Country on Friday, immediately after supervising the successful execution of the 22nd National Sports festival in Ogun state. The DG's participation at the games' strategic seminar is expected to ensure Team Nigeria is fully equipped with all the regulations and requirements needed for Nigeria to record a successful outing at the games in November. The Islamic solidarity Games is another opportun...

 _stages an inspiring closing ceremony as Delta retains title_  Ogun State took the hosting of the National Sports festival to another new level after ending the Games with a breathtaking closing ceremony on Thursday at the MKO Sports Arena. After about two weeks of non stop competition, the closing ceremony had every element of a true global sporting spectacle.  From the quality of attendance, to the inspiring calisthenic display, to the musical performances and the different inspiring speeches of top government dignitaries, Thursday's closing ceremony has definitely raised the bar for future games. Unarguably no state seemed to have done it better to inspire thousands of Nigerian youths using the power of Sports, like Ogun state, and the show it displayed for both the opening and the closing ceremony, will leave a lasting legacy for a very long time. Delta state emerged the winners of the games and successfully defended the title they won two years ago in Asaba as host,...

This is me wishing the Special Adviser Media and Public Communications to Mr. President, Chief Sunday Dare, a heartfelt wishes on the occasion of his 59th birthday today. An astute, competent, hardworking, and charismatic trailblazer are some of the virtues that uniquely characterised the personality of Chief Sunday Dare, as he marks another year. As the former Minister of Sports , I remember how he pioneered some of the enabling policies that we are currently implementing today as part of our Renewed Hope initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy. His passion for sustainable sports development is one of the reasons the 22nd edition of the National Sports festival is held in Ogun State and today marking the closing ceremony of the Games rightly coincides with his 59th birthday. As a consultant I bidded for Ogun state to host the Sports festival and Chief Sunday Dare  then Sports Minister believed strongly in our bid and awarded us the hosting rights and today the games is drawing to a ...

Happy 59th birthday to Chief Sunday Dare, a true patriot and rare gem. Your dedication to public service and humility have made you a shining example for many. As Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, your expertise and passion have been invaluable assets to the nation. Your journey, marked by integrity and hard work, has inspired countless individuals. From your early days as a journalist to your current role, you have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. Your ability to bring people together and foster collaboration has earned you respect and admiration. As Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development (2019-2023), you implemented policies promoting sports development and youth empowerment. Your tenure as Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), showcased your exceptional leadership skills in managing interactions with public and private sector stakeholders. Throughout your ca...

 _As organisers promise another spectacle at closing ceremony on Thursday_  After 11 days of  a true showcase of sporting competition in multiple Sports by some of the country's top and even promising athletes, the curtain will finally be drawn on what many have described as one of the best ever organised National Sports festivals, when the closing ceremony is held on Thursday at the MKO Sports Arena in Abeokuta. Whilst the quality of the Games' opening ceremony is still getting tongues wagging, the entire sporting family and beyond is now anxiously looking forward to what the closing ceremony will look like. The last 11 days have showcased Ogun state as a true Sporting hub with potential to even do more, with the quality of the facilities built for the games and the enthusiasm of the people who made the various venues their second home in the last few days. A big testament to this was the history-making crowd that attended the male football final between Ogun state and K...

_As Young swimmer Abdujabal Adama gets enlisted into Elite programs_  Director General of the National Sports commission, NSC, Hon Bukola Olopade has revealed that highly rated Nigeria young swimming sensation AbdulJabar Adama has been enlisted into the Commission's Elite Program, under the Elite Athletes and Podium board. The Nigeria Aquatic Federation received the cheering news when the board presented the contingents that represented Nigeria at the 16th Africa Junior swimming Championships in Egypt to the Director General in Abeokuta on Tuesday, at the National Sports Festival. Nigeria had a successful campaign in Egypt securing three gold medals and a bronze, all courtesy of  17 year old Abduljabal Adama. Abduljabal broke the championship record in the 50m butterfly and the African record in the 50m freestyle. He also won the 100m freestyle. Nigeria later finished third overall behind South Africa and Egypt. The DG said swimming is becoming a very top Sports where Nigeria ...