NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday
General News

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday

192 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday paid tribute to Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd.) on his 83rd birthday.

In the tribute personally written by Tinubu, he saluted Abubakar for his service to Nigeria, both in uniform and in retirement.

He commended his commitment to peace, stability, and good governance across the African continent.

“Gen. Abubakar’s legacy, particularly his role in leading Nigeria through a peaceful transition to democratic rule in 1999, remains a watershed moment in the nation’s history.

“His selfless act of handing over power paved the way for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and strengthened the principle of constitutional democracy.

“As Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting dialogue, defusing tension, and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria,” the President wrote.

He said Abubakar’s voice of moderation, reason, and statesmanship was deeply valued at a time where unity and leadership were more critical than ever.

Tinubu described Abubakar as a patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspired generations of Nigerians in public life.

“As he marks another year of life, Nigeria honours his sacrifices, wisdom, and unyielding devotion to the peace and unity of our great nation.

“I wish the former Head of State continued strength, good health, and divine grace in the years ahead,” Tinubu said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection
Science & Tech

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection

198 total views today

By Okeoghene Akubuike

Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to data protection in Nigeria.

He disclosed this in a statement on Saturday by Zira Nagga, Head of Public Relations, BPP, following a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

Adedokun stressed that data protection is vital to Nigeria’s economy and development, particularly in areas such as demography, health, education, and other key sectors.

He emphasised that no country should leave its data unprotected, as it plays a crucial role in future planning and national development.

“Data governs the world. It is essential to technological progress and must be protected for a country or business to be taken seriously,” he said.

Adedokun described the visit, aimed at fostering partnership on data policy implementation and protection, as timely and aligned with national goals.

He said the BPP would collaborate closely with the NDPC to boost data development, capacity building, and enhance the procurement system.

“The BPP will support compliance as part of the ‘Nigeria First’ Policy, although it is not a core procurement eligibility requirement,” he explained.

He suggested a hybrid training model to help build strong capacity in data protection, privacy awareness, and policy understanding.

According to him, a dynamic training approach will reduce logistics costs and improve public confidence in data safety and privacy.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, NDPC CEO and Pioneer National Commissioner, praised Adedokun and the BPP for supporting data protection initiatives.

He said the partnership supports President Bola Tinubu’s vision and will strengthen data privacy across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“The collaboration will create awareness and train BPP staff to ensure a firm grasp of data protection principles and policies,” he stated.

Olatunji said the NDPC would establish a working group to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding beneficial to both institutions.

He added that President Tinubu signed the NDPC into law on 12 June 2023 to uphold citizens’ rights and protect national and business data.

Olatunji also noted that strict legal measures were in place to enforce data protection and ensure full compliance nationwide.

Both agencies agreed to form a team to sign the MoU and focus on capacity building and data management in procurement and beyond. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation
Environment

GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation

178 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The GreenHubAfrica Foundation, an NGO, has unveiled a Climate Action SuperHeroes (CASH) Youth Network, a digital-first platform, to train and empower 50,000 young change makers on climate-smart innovation and circular-economy enterprises.

GreenHubAfrica, which promotes environmental sustainability, inaugurated the network on Saturday in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2025 World Environment Day and Exhibition popularly known as WEDex.

Mr Henry Bassey, Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, identified the vision and mission of the foundation as a greener and more sustainable continent.

Bassey said waste management value chain had huge employment and empowerment opportunities adding that youth engagement in the sector had huge economic benefits.

He said the organisation’s 2024 CASH school outreach topped performers list as participants continued to demonstrate the knowledge they acquired through the programme.

Bassey said WEDex, which started as a virtual event in 2020 due to restrictions of COVID-19 lockdown, had become a movement.

He identified 2025 edition of WEDex as another milestone after five years of COVID-19 devastation.

Bassey said WEDex had grown to become a highly sought after platform with annual events on the platforms including webinars, podcasts and outcome capture sessions resulting in documented blueprint to climate action from the young and old.

“In 1972, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day, marking the start of a global movement to raise awareness and accelerate action for the protection of our environment.

“WEDex 2025 stands not merely as an event, but a movement—a bold expression of action and accountability.

“What once began as a webinar series during lockdown has matured into a one-day, high-level engagement that merges conversation with consequence.

“The platform will focus on unpacking thought leadership Ideas to deliver solutions that overcome complex environmental challenges, through practical reforms,” he said.

Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, President, Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), identified plastic pollution as the second municipal solid waste challenge regarding waste management in the country.

Okobia said that waste management was a crisis that required the concerted efforts of all and sundry to put a stop to plastic waste.

The president, who identified the private sector as key in ending plastic waste in the country, urged the government to give the sector the opportunity and enabling environment to thrive.

“So, if we must put a stop to plastic pollution, we must look at where the gaps are; if you separate your waste, you separate your recycled waste from your biodegradable, who evacuates them?

“Where are they evacuating them to? Is it the recycling facility? Or is there a landfill site? That is the challenge; so, we should not just go on to speak about plastic pollution.

“We should look at how we can cover those gaps, and make it work; those in the government, private sector and civil society groups, we must come together,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Environment Day is commemorated annually on June 5.

The theme for 2025 is “Beat Plastic Pollution”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland
General News

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland

186 total views today

By Abiodun Lawal

Hon. Gboyega Isiaka, House of Representatives member, representing Yewa North/ Imeko Afon Federal constituency was on Saturday, installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland by Yewa Muslim Community Organisation.

In his acceptance speech at the turbarning and conferment ceremony held in Imeko Afon, Isiaka expressed gratitude to the League of Imams and Alfas of Yewaland for counting him worthy of the noble responsibility.

He noted that the title was rich in spiritual significance and historical depth.

The lawmaker pledged to lead by example in faith, to support the Ummah in truth and to recommit himself to the advancement of Islam in the region.

According to him, the essence of faith is service to Allah, describing Islam as a complete and beautiful way of life, whose principles are based on truth, justice, compassion, and accountability.

“If we claim to be faithful, we must also be useful. That is the foundation upon which I embrace this role.

“Today, as I accept the title of Seriki Adinni of Yewaland, I do so with the full consciousness that titles may decorate a person, but it is service that dignifies the title,” he said.

Isiaka, the Chairman, House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, stated that religion plays a crucial role in national growth and development, adding that religion should unite and not divide us.

“We must ensure that we continue to preach unity through religion. We are united by the fact that we want development as a country.

“We are united by the fact that we want progress. We are united by the fact that we want a greater Nigeria. Whichever religion you practice is your choice,” he said.

In his remarks, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun explained that the recognition of Isiaka by Yewa Muslims community was timely and richly deserving.

Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele , opined that the newly installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland exemplifies humility, integrity and discipline.

“He has remained a dignify ambassador of Imeko, Yewaland and of Ogun West grounded, principle and always committed to the progress of his people.

“As the Seriki Adinni , I have no doubt that he will bring qualities to strengthen unity and spiritual growth of the Yewa Muslim community, ” he said.

Dignitaries at the event included members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers and Islamic religious leaders. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

DEPOWA President urges military wives to stay active, stress-free
Health

DEPOWA President urges military wives to stay active, stress-free

158 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Mrs Oghogho Musa, President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), has urged wives of military and police personnel to remain active and avoid stress to stay healthy.

Musa made the call during the DEPOWA monthly aerobics for health titled, “Dance to De-Stress”, on Saturday in Abuja.

She said the women must continue to undertake any physical activity that would help them to be active and keep them away from stress and other diseases.

“That is why we are dancing to distress. If you cannot run or walk, you can dance to keep active.

“So I want to encourage every one of you to keep this in mind because you can play music at home to keep being active.

“When you dance, you are actually sweating and having fun, keeping fit, and at the same time burning those unnecessary fats in the body, and keeping healthy and active at the same time.

“Please, let us keep dancing and keep being active. Being active cannot be over-exercised because it will do you and your body a lot of good.

“And remember, when you do this, you are investing into the future. The Lord will keep you strong, healthy, to keep being active,” she said.

DEPOWA President said the exercise was necessary for military wives because of the responsibility of keeping the home front and others owing to the constant absence of their husbands.

Dr Juliet Ango, Consultant Public Health Physician and Chairperson, Health and Sports Committee of DEPOWA, said that stress was actually the phenomenon that people often underrated or looked down on.

Ango said that stress had a direct impact on mental and physical health, adding that people could come down with hypertension and so many other issues that had to do with their physical health as a result of stress.

She urged the women to be intentional in the effort to de-stress, by taking time to unwind, engage in exercise or sports. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Yakubu Uba

Expert urges men on preventive care against prostate cancer risks
Health

Expert urges men on preventive care against prostate cancer risks

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

Dr Sandra Nnamani, a public health expert, has urged men on preventive measures and active surveillance to mitigate prostate cancer risks and other health concerns.

Nnamani, Assistant General Manager,  Anchor HMO International Company Ltd., said this at the CWAY water Ltd., Men’s Day event on Friday in Lagos.

The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

The health expert listed its symptoms to include trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, blood in urine and semen and abdominal pain.

She stated that in advanced cases, symptoms such as bone pain, weight loss, and erectile dysfunction among others presented themselves.

Nnamani stated that prostate cancer risk factors for men were old age, black race, family history, obesity and smoking.

She, however, said the disease could be managed by active surveillance.

According to her, with this approach, men get screenings, scans and biopsies every one to three years to monitor cancer development and growth.

“Active surveillance works best if the cancer is only in the prostate, slow-growing and not causing symptoms.

“Other processes to address same may be radiotherapy, immunotherapy, brachytherapy and prostatectomy,” she said.

Nnamani noted that to support prostate cancer prevention, men must embrace annual checks provided by their companies in collaboration with their Health Maintenance Organisations.

She added that men must get regular prostate screening, quit smoking, choose a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

“Beyond the everyday hustle and bills, men must begin to take care of themselves and take advantage of the medical insurance their workplaces provide.

“It is also important for men to maintain
a healthy weight and talk to their doctors about increased risk of prostate cancer,” she said.

Mr Francis Chukwuemezie, Senior Human Resource Manager, Cway water, said the event was to amplify awareness for men’s health and to encourage more men to get invested in their health outcomes.

Chukwuemezie noted that the average Nigerian man was so carried away with working hard to provide for the home front that they forget to look after themselves in doing so.

He expressed hope that with the charge at the event, more men would begin to pay attention to their health and not wait for the inevitable before taking action.

“The essence is to celebrate men and bring to notice the importance of men checking themselves as men can get carried away with the core responsibility of providing for the family and forget to check themselves.

“At Cway, the effort of every man is celebrated and we have set the day aside to talk, take care of ourselves and ensure that we eliminate completely diseases that are preventable,” he said.

Mr Gordian Azolum, Senior Factory Manager, Cway water, noted that the maiden event by the company showed that men’s health which before now was not very openly discussed had now gained awareness.

Azolum said the topic on prostate was very enlightening as some men may be suffering without their knowledge, saying the onset of the disease maybe with without symptoms.

He also restated the company’s commitment to not just work environment safety but the health safety of its member of staff.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

AGF urges Nigerians to emulate late Justice Uwais’ integrity
General News , Judiciary

AGF urges Nigerians to emulate late Justice Uwais’ integrity

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has called on Nigerians to emulate the selflessness and integrity of the late Justice Muhammadu Uwais in order to advance national development.

Fagbemi, (SAN), made the call on Thursday in Abuja during a special prayer held in honour of the late jurist by the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS).

The Minister of Justice commended the late Uwais for living a life of honour and distinction, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations.

“Uwais has lived a very fulfilled life, his legacies are many when you talk of integrity, hard work, self restraint, respect for others, no matter how young you may be.

“He did not use his position to amass wealth. No anti-graft agency ran after him after his tenure in office.

“The family he left behind and Nigerians should uphold his legacies because the work he did still speaks for him.

“I pray Allah to forgive his shortcomings no matter how slight or big,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Haruna Uwais, eldest son of the late jurist, expressed gratitude for his father’s life and called on Nigerians to keep praying for the family and the country.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants Baba al-Janah Firdaus. We hope to carry forward the values he instilled in us and preserve his legacy,” he said.

The National Chief Imam of AIS, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, who delivered a lecture titled “The Essence of Life” described Uwais as a detribalised Nigerian who used his position to uplift humanity.

“Justice Uwais used his position to help humanity. He affected lives and you can see the testimonies here today.

“He came at a time when no one recognised or believed in us (AIS).

“Baba trusted in our mission, even, He believed in the work we are doing and supported us and brought all his friends into the organisation.

“We are always conscious of what we do because people make reference to us that those are Uwais’ children and that’s why we have to be careful with what we do,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the special prayer was attended by legal luminaries, Islamic scholars, judges, politicians, and members of civil society.

Justice Muhammadu Uwais passed away on June 6.

He was born on June 12, 1936, and served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria between 1995 and 2006 when he retired.

After retirement, he was appointed by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua to lead the Electoral Reform Committee, where he played a pivotal role in improving Nigeria’s electoral system. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Cleric, others urge youth participation in governance
General News

Cleric, others urge youth participation in governance

171 total views today

By Joshua Olomu

Rev. Canon Ugochukwu Ndukuba of Basilica of Grace, Abuja Diocese of the Anglican Communion and leaders from different backgrounds have called on youth to participate more in the politics and governance process in Nigeria.

They made the call at a symposium on youth involvement in politics organised by the church on Friday.

The event with the theme, “Empowering the Next Generation: The Role of Youth in Politics”, brought together students and youths from diverse backgrounds.

According to the cleric and other stakeholders who served as resource persons at the symposium, youth involvement in Nigerian politics is crucial for them to have a voice in shaping their future.

Ndukuba said when youth are involved in leadership roles, they would be in a better position to advocate for policies and programmes that address unique needs and challenges faced by young people.

“We are celebrating our father’s week and alongside the politicians among us, we decided to organize this symposium to educate young people to be part of partisan politics.

“This is to expose them to what happens within the political space of our nation, and to encourage them to have political mentors to enable them to get prepared for political leadership.

“Interestingly, some of these political leaders happened to be staunch members of the Anglican communion and they are to share their experiences for our youth to get inspired for leadership.

“ As Christian youths, we also urged them to imbibe the virtues of selfless service as they prepare to be part of partisan politics

“The spirit of leadership is actually given by the Holy Spirit of God, and if you don’t have the spirit of God, you cannot be a God-fearing leader”, he said.

Sen.Nkechi Nwaogu said the Not-too-young to run’ law has offered opportunities for young Nigerians, and urged youths to shun the negative notion of politics being a dirty game, and get involved in active politics.

According to her, the act of engaging in politics itself is not dirty, but the individuals involved may be influenced by personal ambition and selfish interests.

“You see, the negative aspect of not getting involved in politics is that the wrong people you do not want to lead you will be the ones making decisions that will affect everybody.

“I want to encourage the youth to come on board, to begin to sanitise the political space and the society

“Some of the youths keep saying they don’t understand politics; start with one issue you care about, there must be something that is bothering you, you don’t have to be master of it all.

“It is about understanding issues, holding leaders accountable, and ensuring your community is represented with integrity.

“Say no to political apathy and say yes to building the future you want,If you are not at the table, you will be on the menu”, she said..

Similarly, Mr Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, former Minister of State for Education ,urged aspiring young leaders to invest in character and capacity building in order to become responsible and accountable leaders.

According to him, it is imperative that youths with political ambitions subject themselves to mentorship by experienced and selfless political leaders.

“For you to have good governance, those who are coming to govern must have a good value system because you will have the values you portray in every office.

The mind must be to serve, to give, and I encourage youth to be useful, against being useless, because if you are not useful you will be useless.

“Those of you who are interested in partisan politics, you must prove that you can be useful to society, so that you can be recommended for service” he said.

The Highlight of the event was the unveiling of the book “Empowering Tomorrow”,a masterpiece on youth empowerment with focus on leadership and fight against corruption in Nigerian society.

The 13-chapter book is authored by Sen. Frank Ibezim, who represented Imo North Senatorial District in the 9th Senate.

According to the author, the book is to encourage youth to take active roles in shaping their future and the future of their nation.

Ibezim said that the spate of moral decadence among young people today was largely due to the failure of government and parents.

“My advice to the youth is that they must not fail themselves because the government and their parents have failed in their roles.

“ They must stand up and take charge of their future, as they are not just the leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today because the future starts now”, he said.

Other speakers at the event include Sen.Ugochukwu Uba and Mrs Debrah Ogazuma, among others (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Group urges Govt., stakeholders to prioritise agriculture investment
Agriculture

Group urges Govt., stakeholders to prioritise agriculture investment

209 total views today

By Okeoghene Akubuike

Agricultural Agenda Nigeria Initiative (AANI), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has called on the Government and stakeholders to prioritise investments in agriculture, rural infrastructure, research, and extension services.

Ephraim Audu, National President of AANI, made this known in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday as the country marked Democracy Day.

Audu stated that agriculture was essential for inclusive growth, youth employment, and national prosperity, values that democracy should uphold.

“As we mark this significant milestone in our nation’s history, we call on all stakeholders, including government at all levels, the organised private sector, civil society organisations, and development partners, to prioritise investments in agriculture, rural infrastructure, research, and extension services.

“Only through a united and sustained effort can we unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensure food security, economic diversification, and shared prosperity for all,” he said.

He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to a vision of Nigeria where every farmer would have the tools, knowledge, and support to thrive, explaining that when agriculture grew, Nigeria grew.

Audu, therefore, advised increased budgetary allocation to agriculture to meet and exceed the Maputo Declaration commitment of 10 per cent of the national budget, with a clear focus on smallholder farmers, women, and youth.

“Strengthen and digitise agricultural extension services to ensure farmers have real-time access to best practices, improved inputs, and climate-smart innovations across all geopolitical zones.

“Improve rural infrastructure by prioritising the construction and rehabilitation of rural roads, irrigation systems, and storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses and efficiently connect farmers to markets.

“Promote access to affordable credit and inputs by expanding access to low-interest credit through farmer-friendly financial instruments, ensuring timely and transparent distribution of fertilizers, improved seeds, and agrochemicals.

“Invest in agro-tech and digital agriculture to modernise Nigeria’s agricultural systems and increase youth participation in agribusiness.

“Enact and enforce gender-inclusive land reform policies to secure land tenure and enable farmers, especially women and young people, to access, own, and invest in agricultural land without discrimination.

“Enhance climate resilience and environmental sustainability by developing and implementing a national climate-smart agriculture strategy that promotes sustainable land use, reforestation, and adaptation to climate change, especially in vulnerable regions.”

He also advocated fostering research, innovation, and agro-industrialization by strengthening research institutions and promoting partnerships with development organisations to drive value addition, local processing, and export diversification through agro-industrial clusters.

Audu said the policy recommendations, if implemented with political will and accountability, could reposition Nigeria’s agricultural sector to feed its growing population, create millions of jobs, and build a more resilient and inclusive economy.

“As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, the initiative reaffirmed its commitment to empowering rural communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and ensuring food security for every Nigerian.

“Today, we celebrate not only our nation’s milestones but also the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of more than 20 million registered smallholder farmers across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, spanning 774 Local Government Areas.

“They are the backbone of our economy and the true custodians of our land.

“At AANI, we have committed resources and are set to empower and support up to 1,000 smallholder farmers nationwide as a deliberate action towards reducing poverty and hunger in Nigeria.

“We stand ready to partner with relevant stakeholders to make this vision a reality.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AANI focuses on Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2, No Poverty and Zero Hunger, through smallholder farmer aggregation, women and youth empowerment, access to markets, and rural community development.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

From Sidelines to Centre Stage: Assessing Tinubu’s sports economy vision
Features

From Sidelines to Centre Stage: Assessing Tinubu’s sports economy vision

250 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

As President Bola Tinubu marks his second year in office, his administration has embarked on transformative reforms aimed at revitalising the  Nigeria’s sports sector.

Tinubu, long hailed as a master strategist in the political arena, unveiled a sporting vision that seeks to turn passion into profit and athletes into assets.

Central to this vision is the re-establishment of the National Sports Commission (NSC), a strategic move designed to fast-track the development of a robust sports economy.

In October 2024, the President, in his usual bold innovative style, dissolved the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and transferred its functions to the newly revived NSC.

Malam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade, both astute sports administrators with enviable track records, were subsequently appointed as Chairman and Director-General of the commission, respectively, with a mandate to steer the sporting ship to a podium finish.

Dikko, upon assuming duty at the NSC, emphasised the need for a holistic approach to sports development, moving beyond mere medal pursuits to fostering grassroots participation, talent identification, and infrastructural growth.

“We must change our mindset from the fixation of just competitions and winning medals and focus on our domestic sports development.

“When we set the foundation right, the results and the winning of medals will naturally come in a sustainable manner,” Dikko said.

Similarly, Olopade stressed the importance of professionalism and effective leadership in sports administration to get the country back on track.

“Sports cannot be run like other government activities because of its dynamic nature.

“Making the NSC oversee the administration of sports is a significant achievement,” he added.

President Tinubu as a mark of his commitment to increase investment in sports and make the sector a significant contributor to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has set down a marker.

In a clear departure from the past, the 2025 federal budget allocated over ₦94 billion to the sports sector, marking a 227% increase from the previous year.

These funds are earmarked for the rehabilitation of key facilities, including the National Stadium in Lagos, Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, and Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with plans to transform them into world-class sports cities through public-private partnerships.

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu while commenting on the budget, commended the Tinubu-led administration for increasing the budget from N29 billion to over N94 billion.

“The President of Federal Republic of Nigeria has tripled the budget of the sports from N29,082,369,979:00 in 2024 to N94,947,006,325:00 in 2025.

“The leap in the expenditure framework represent 227 per cent  increment. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is hereby commended for the giant strides in the budgetary allocations to the sports sector.

“It is our hope and belief that, the increment in budgetary allocation would mark a turning point in the development, administration and management of sports activities in Nigeria,” Amadu said.

To further drive President Tinubu’s vision for a vibrant sports economy in line with international best practices, the NSC inaugurated the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE) to serve as the blueprint for this transformation.

Under RHINSE, the NSC aims to position sports as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, targeting a 3 per cent contribution and the creation of at least three  million jobs across the sports value chain by 2029.

Dikko said that the vision includes the establishment of an Anti-Doping Laboratory to enhance Nigeria’s standing in international sports and generate foreign exchange.

Both Dikko and Olopade have reiterated that the NSC will continue to partner with the private sector to achieve its lofty goals, as government alone cannot do it.

To this end, the NSC initiated partnerships with corporate entities like MTN Nigeria, among others.

These collaborations aim to boost sponsorship opportunities, enhance athlete support, and create a sustainable sports ecosystem.

The leadership of the NSC has articulated a vision for a comprehensive sports development model that prioritises grassroots engagement, talent identification, and infrastructural enhancement.

This approach seeks to build a sustainable sports economy that not only produces champions but also contributes to national development through job creation and economic diversification.

Stakeholders say President Tinubu’s second year in office has heralded a new era for Nigeria’s sports sector.

They, however, stressed that to fully achieve these goals, all hands must be on deck, and the private sector must be fully involved, as Nigeria undoubtedly has abundant talents but has continued to struggle administratively to harness and transform the sector.

Harrison Jalla, Chairman of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) Task Force, while assessing President Tinubu’s scorecard in the sector, commended him for increased funding for sports.

“On funding, President Tinubu did excellently well, he is arguably the best thing to have happened to Nigerian sports in terms of funding,’’ he said.

The ex-international, however urged the President to immediately constitute a board for the NSC in order to make its operations constitutional.

“To give legal backing to the activities of the National Sports Commission, President Tinubu must, without further delay, inaugurate the National Sports Commission Board in consonance with the National Sports Commission Establishment Act 2023.

“The National Sports Commission remains a defective structure without a functional Board, and all its activities currently lack the force of law,’’ he said.

Legendary former Green Eagles captain and sports administrator, Segun Odegbami at a recent public lecture identified the power of sports as a strong force that can change the world in all ramifications.

He therefore urged the Federal Government to continue to explore the endless possibilities in the power of sports as a social and economic driver.

As President Tinubu enters the second half of his term, stakeholders are of the view that Nigeria’s sports sector finally has a fighting chance to fulfill its potential.

But the journey from ambition to achievement will require political will, private sector participation and institutional discipline. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

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