World News Update

PRESS STATEMENT As part of its commitment to advancing the sports industry, the National Sports Commission (NSC) on Friday inaugurated the board of the E-Sports Federation of Nigeria at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.   In his keynote address, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko emphasized that the federation will strive to compete favorably with contemporaries, while also engaging a new generation of young Nigerians in the rapidly growing esports industry.   Addressing the media after the event, NSC Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade highlighted the transformative potential of esports in Nigeria, stating: "Esports will energize and encourage the youth to thrive in the digital space. It is a sport that engages millions, with stakeholders estimating its reach at around 46 million individuals." He further acknowledged the long journey toward unifying the esports community in Nigeria, adding that "for about six years, there has been a struggle to organize the E-Sport...

PRESS STATEMENT The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has praised renowned entrepreneur and sports investor, Hon. Kunle Soname, for his immense contributions to sports development in Nigeria.   Hon. Olopade made this statement on Thursday after receiving Soname at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where both technocrats engaged in discussions on the future of Nigerian sports.   Speaking on Soname’s impact, Olopade stated, "Kunle Soname is a blessing to Nigerian sports. His contributions to sports development are laudable—he has taken youth off the streets, given them a future, and built careers for many. He deserves the applause of the NSC. We had some discussions behind closed doors, but they were all centered on advancing sports in Nigeria."   Soname’s influence extends beyond football, as he has supported various other sports in Nigeria. Olopade emphasized the need for increased private sector involv...

The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), under Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has commended Aruna Quadri and Fatima Bello for securing their places at the 2025 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) World Cup.   Both athletes sealed their World Cup berths by advancing to the semifinals of the ongoing ITTF Africa Cup in Tunis.  Quadri is set to face Ylane Batix, while Bello will battle Hana Goda in their respective semifinal matchups.   Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko highlighted the NSC’s commitment to fostering excellence across all sports, stating, "our goal is to build a sustainable sports ecosystem where Nigerian athletes consistently compete and excel on the global stage. The recent successes across multiple sports reflect our dedication to this vision." Echoing this sentiment, DG Hon. Bukola Olopade praised the resilience of Nigerian athletes, adding, "These achievements are a testament to the talent...

NATIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION.  PRESS RELEASE. The National Sports Commission received a significant boost recently as the Director General of Nigeria Television Authority, Comrade Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko and the Director General, Hon Bukola Olapade with the view for a collaborative partnership towards the future development of sports broadcasting in Nigeria.  At the meeting held today at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, Abuja, the Chairman emphasized the need for collaboration between the NTA and the Commission to reach a wider audience and showcase the talents of Nigerian athletes. He also highlighted the numerous successes achieved by the Commission in recent times, including the impressive performances of Nigerian athletes at international competitions.  The meeting resulted in a fruitful discussion on strategies to promote sports through television and other media platforms. "With the combined efforts ...

The Leadership of the National Sports Commission,NSC, will be busy across various centres supervising and monitoring proceedings as the Zonal elimination for Team Sports for the 22nd National Sports Festival takes centre stage this week. States will be jostling to secure spots at the different zonal centres that Include; Ibadan, Benin, Enugu , Kaduna, Plateau and Yobe state for various Team Sports at the 22nd National Sports Festival coming up in Ogun State. The Zonal elimination will mark another bold step in preparation towards a successful organisation of the Festival billed for the month of May this year in the Gateway State. The NSC leadership is determined to ensure there is a hitch-free zonal eliminations across the various centres and to this end the Chairman and the Director General of the Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon Bukola Olopade, have decided to visit some of the centres. The NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko will be at the Kaduna Centre while the Director Genera...

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has congratulated Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, on securing their qualification for the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket tournament.   Nigeria, the 2015 Afrobasket champions, staged a remarkable comeback after starting the qualifiers with three consecutive losses. The team delivered huge performances against Libya and Uganda to secure their ticket to the Angolan capital before another convincing win over Cape Verde 77-62 points in their final game on Sunday. Hon. Olopade commended the team’s efforts and resilience throughout the qualifiers, reaffirming the NSC’s commitment to supporting Nigerian basketball.   "This qualification is a testament to the talent and determination of our players, coaches, and the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF). The National Sports Commission remains dedicated to ensuring that Nigerian basketball continues to thrive on the global stage," he stat...

 PRESS STATEMENT The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has described the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon as a prime example of a thriving sports economy, highlighting its significant impact on commerce, tourism, and job creation.   The 10th edition of the marathon, organized by Nilayo Sports Management Company Limited, was successfully staged last Saturday, marking another milestone in its history. The event, which has grown into a world-class sports carnival, attracted over 25,000 runners, including 400 international athletes and 100 elite runners.   Hon. Olopade said that the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has evolved beyond just another race, to become a full-fledged ecosystem of sports commerce, benefiting multiple sectors and thousands of people.   Hon. Olopade, a two-time Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State stated that for the past 10 years, the marathon has succeeded in providing a source of liveli...

…Says projecting positive image is key to attracting and sustaining investments   The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has charged stakeholders in the sports sector to consistently project Nigerian sports in a positive light to attract the necessary funding and drive sustainable growth in the industry.   Speaking at the Sports Africa Investment Summit (SAIS), co-organized by the NSC and Sports Nigeria in Lagos, Olopade emphasized that the perception of Nigeria’s sports industry plays a crucial role in securing private-sector investment.   "Like international best practices, you don't de-market a product you intend to take to the market because the perception of the product out there matters a lot."   "As someone who has worked in the private sector for more than two decades, I understand why our sports have not attracted optimal private-sector investment. This is why, at the NSC, we are working to chan...

…Reiterates Commission’s commitment to all Sports Federations   The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has charged Nigeria’s Senior Men’s Basketball Team, D’Tigers, to put up a strong and committed performance at the final window of the Afrobasket Qualifiers in Libya.   Through the support of the NSC, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) successfully facilitated the team’s arrival in Tripoli for the crucial qualifiers.   "I am sure the NBBF and the coaching crew have selected a very strong and technically balanced squad for the country, blending both foreign-based and home-based players,"  Hon. Olopade said. "Basketball is one of our traditional sports as a country, and we have had tremendous success over the years. It is, therefore, essential to continue giving it the attention it deserves from the Commission."   He also emphasized the NSC’s broader commitment to developing all sports, under th...

 PRESS STATEMENT The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has commended Nigeria’s badminton team for their remarkable performance at the All Africa Senior Badminton Championship in Douala, Cameroon.  The team secured a third-place finish in the overall medal table, winning one gold and two bronze medals at the prestigious continental event.   Hon. Olopade expressed his pride in the team’s resilience and dedication, despite facing an upheaval task. "I followed the team closely throughout the tournament, and I must commend the leadership of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, the players, and the coaching staff for their unwavering dedication. Even in the face of difficulties, they represented Nigeria with pride and delivered commendable results. The NSC remains fully committed to supporting badminton and other federations in achieving their goals," he said.   A special highlight of the championship was Anuoluwapo Op...

The Nigerian Senate has approved the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund Bill, a crucial legislative move sponsored by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District. The bill, which aims to address youth unemployment and enhance the NYSC scheme’s capacity, has now been transmitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.   A year ago, on February 14, 2024, Senator Adaramodu, who also serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth Development and Community Engagement, introduced the bill to provide skill acquisition opportunities, improve the welfare of corps members, and upgrade NYSC orientation camps across the country.   With its final approval by the Senate, the bill is set to revolutionize the NYSC program by creating a sustainable funding mechanism to empower Nigerian graduates. The development has been hailed as a major step towards tackling graduate unemployment and strengthening national development efforts. ...

Lagos State Governor, His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has lauded the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, describing it as more than just a race but a celebration of endurance, determination, and the vibrant spirit of Lagos.   The Governor, who was on the ground for a fun run and witness the event firsthand, commended the resilience and competence displayed by the athletes, organizers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the marathon.   In his remarks, he stated:   "The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is more than a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, determination, and the vibrant spirit of Lagos. Thousands of athletes from across the world took to our streets, proving once again that Lagos is the home of excellence in sports and global events.” "Congratulations to all the runners, organizers, and supporters who made this event a success. Lagos continues to set the pace in hosting world-class sporting events. We are building a city where spor...

Kenya’s Edwin Kibet put on a remarkable display of endurance and resilience to emerge as the winner of the 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.   Kibet showed immense strength to outpace his rivals to claim victory, despite a difficult path. He crossed the finish line with an unofficial time of 2:14:18, securing the prestigious title and the $50,000 prize money.   It was total Kenyan dominance in the men’s elite category, as Kibet led a clean sweep of the podium places:   🥇 1st Place: Edwin Koech Kibet– 2:14:18   🥈 2nd Place: Nehemiah Kipyegon – 2:16:37   🥉 3rd Place: Bernard Cheruiyot – 2:17:17   The Access BankLagos Marathon, now in its 10th edition, has grown into one of Africa’s premier long-distance races, attracting top-tier international athletes.  The Gold Label event, recognized by World Athletics, continues to boost Nigeria’s status in global marathon circuits while providing a platform for eli...

As the countdown to the 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon intensifies, Nilayo Sports Management Ltd has announced that a world press conference will be held on Friday at the Headquarters of Access Bank, Oniru, Lagos.  This event is part of a series of activities leading up to race day and is expected to set the tone for what promises to be a landmark edition of the prestigious marathon. Scheduled for Saturday, February 15, this year’s race is set to host approximately 4,000 athletes, including 100 elite international runners, solidifying its status as one of Africa’s premier marathon events. Among the distinguished personalities expected to be in attendance are top government officials, sports administrators, and legendary athletes.  The roll call includes the Special Adviser, Media and Public Communication/Spokesperson to the President, Hon. Sunday Dare, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Vice President, Chief Solomon Ogba, NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, NSC Direct...

The Federal Government has commended Ogun State for its continuous commitment to hosting a world-class National Sports Festival as the event draws closer.  The Organizing Committee (LOC) with the firm support of the NSC officially unveiled Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor of the festival on Wednesday in Abeokuta, in record breaking deal.  Speaking on this feat, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, lauded Ogun State’s dedication to ensuring a seamless and memorable festival, emphasizing the importance of corporate and private sector support in shaping the future of Nigerian sports in line with vission of the NSC.  "The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the 2024 National Sports Festival is a testament to the rising confidence of the private sector in Nigerian sports. Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to execeptional standa...

PRESS STATEMENT The Organizing Committee of the Gateway Games 2024 National Sports Festival has officially unveiled Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor of the highly anticipated sports fiesta.   The partnership represents the largest single sponsorship agreement for the National Sports Festival. In a grand unveiling ceremony held in Abeokuta, the partnership underscored the significance of public-private collaboration in advancing sports development, aligning with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for a sustainable sports economy.   As Nigeria continues its journey toward a thriving and self-sufficient sports sector, the National Sports Festival Organizing Committee expressed confidence in the positive impact this partnership will have on the Games and the broader sports ecosystem.   Dignitaries present at the unveiling included the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Olatokunbo Talabi; Ogun State Commissioner for Youth and S...

Organisers of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Nilayo Sports management Company Limited, have announced Valuejet as its official Airline partner for the 10th Anniversary of the Race. Valuejet which is one of Nigeria's fastest growing indigenous Airlines has joined a long list of partners who are making sure the Lagos City Marathon maintains its status as Africa's biggest road race.  As organisers of the race expect to welcome over 4000 international Athletes and over 400 Elite Athletes from all over the World, Valuejet is expected to bring its cutting edge aviation experience to bear. Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports management Company Limited, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, said the partnership with Valuejet is a massive achievement for the race and it only shows how increasingly confident Corporate Nigeria is having in the Lagos City marathon. " We all know that Valuejet has been one of the biggest supporters of Nigerian Sports for some years now with all they have bee...

The first wave of international athletes participating in the 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is set to arrive in Nigeria on February 13, as confirmed by race organizers. This year’s edition, which marks a decade of the prestigious marathon, will feature an estimated 4,000 international runners, alongside 100 elite athletes from across the globe. Scheduled for February 15, the event has been aptly themed “Love in the Air”, aligning with the Valentine’s Day celebrations. Speaking on the upcoming marathon, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, emphasized that meticulous planning has gone into making this edition memorable. “We are thrilled to welcome athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, Eritrea, France, Uganda, Italy, and Ghana,” she said. “Lagos will be buzzing with energy, unity, and the spirit of competition on race day.” She also highlighted Lagos as a prime destination for sporting events, noting that while many parts of the world experie...

NATIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT PRESS RELEASE  National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko has promised to involve all stakeholders in the quest to actualize the sports economy and grassroots sports development mandates of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Speaking when a delegation of Association of Former Female Athletes of Nigeria (AFFAN) paid him a working visit, Mallam Dikko reiterated his position that no crucial stakeholder will be left behind in the pursuit of the Commission's vision.  His words, "We have the sports economy mandate from the President. He has also instructed us to take sports development down to the grassroots hence he appointed a senior special assistant on Grassroots Sports Development that works with us here in the Commission. These mandates can only be actualized with the full involvement of all stakeholders.  "That is why we don't close our doors to such visits. In such meetings, we field suggestions t...

The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has announced the appointment of Ekwe Blessing Chisalam as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO).  A dedicated sports enthusiast and accomplished sports scientist, Ms. Blessing holds a master’s degree in sports management and has a deep-rooted passion for sports.   Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Nigerian badminton, which has witnessed remarkable growth at the grassroots, national, and international levels.  Recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, the Director General of National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade has stated that the BFN must not rest on its oars, as loftier objectives lie ahead.  Speaking on her appointment, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria,  Francis Orbih emphasized the importance of having a COO who shares the federation’s vision:   "We need someone who can project badminton with a positive image and align with our dreams and a...

PRESS STATEMENT _DG Olopade motivates athletes with camp visit before departure_  With just days to go before the 2025 All-African Senior Badminton Championship in Douala, Cameroon, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting Nigerian sports federations, including badminton, as they strive for excellence.   Speaking ahead of Team Nigeria’s departure, Olopade emphasized the growing importance of badminton in Nigeria’s sporting landscape, commending the leadership of Francis Orbih, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, for elevating the sport’s profile.   "For us at the NSC, and speaking the mind of our chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, badminton has become a very important sport in the Nigerian sports ecosystem. President Orbih and his leadership team have created a buzz around badminton, and it is evident in what athletes like Aanu have achieved," Olopade said...

The *Access Bank Lagos City Marathon* has solidified its reputation as one of Africa’s leading road races, and as it marks its **10th-anniversary edition**, the numbers tell a story of remarkable growth and impact.   Since its inception, the marathon has attracted participants from **14 countries**, with a staggering **600,000 registered athletes** taking to the streets of Lagos. Over the past decade, these runners have collectively covered an impressive **42,000 kilometers**, reinforcing the marathon’s place in the global athletics calendar.   The 10th edition, set for **February 15, 2025**, is expected to be the most exciting yet, with elite athletes, amateur runners, and fitness enthusiasts converging in Lagos for a world-class sporting spectacle.   With top-tier sponsors such as Access Bank, Casio (official time partner), Airtel (official telecommunications partner), Lagos State Government, World Athletics, 7Up, Rexona, Unilever, ROBB, Premier, Brila Me...