Tinubu’s Sports Revolution Laying Foundation for Future Champions-Dare:
Joel Ajayi
The Special Adviser on Public Communications and Orientation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has said that early talent discovery and sustained investment are essential to securing the future of Nigerian sports.
Dare made the remarks during the appreciation tour organised by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to celebrate outstanding young athletes of 2025. The event took place on Wednesday at Nigerian Tulip International College in Abuja.
While commending the ongoing reforms under President Tinubu, Dare said the renewed attention being given to sports development reflects a broader commitment to building a strong and sustainable sporting ecosystem in the country.
According to him, the foundation of global sporting success lies in identifying and nurturing athletes at a young age, providing them with structured training, education, and the necessary support systems that can help them excel on the international stage.
He explained that many of the positive developments currently being witnessed in Nigerian sports are the result of deliberate policies initiated years ago to create a clear pathway for young talents through education, training, and scholarship opportunities.
Dare also emphasised the importance of strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, noting that sustainable sports development cannot be achieved by government efforts alone.
He praised the leadership of the National Sports Commission for maintaining and strengthening existing development programmes rather than abandoning them, particularly initiatives focused on grassroots talent discovery and youth athlete development.
“The global template is clear,” Dare said. “If you find them young, train them well and support them through education and scholarships, they will eventually bring home gold, silver and bronze medals for the country.”
The former minister expressed confidence in the current leadership of the commission, noting that although they recently assumed office, they have already begun taking practical steps to address key challenges within the sports sector.
He further revealed that private sector interest in sports investment is gradually increasing, stressing that such partnerships will be crucial if Nigeria is to fully harness the economic and social benefits of sports.
Dare concluded that with sustained funding, proper planning, and policy continuity, Nigeria has the capacity to produce more world-class athletes and achieve greater success in international competitions.




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