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Philip Shaibu Hails Tinubu Over Approval of Major Sports Infrastructure Renewal Projects
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the comprehensive renovation and redevelopment of key sports facilities across Nigeria.
Shaibu described the approval as a landmark decision that will significantly transform the country’s sports sector, enhance athlete development, strengthen sports administration, and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
A major highlight of the approved projects is the renovation of the NIS 200-bed athletes’ and coaches’ hostel located at Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Shaibu noted that the facility will play a crucial role in supporting the Institute’s mandate of training athletes, coaches, sports administrators, and technical personnel.
“This development is highly commendable and timely,” Shaibu said.
“The approval of the renovation of critical sports infrastructure, especially the NIS 200-bed athletes’ and coaches’ hostel at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, will greatly enhance the operations of the National Institute for Sports.
“It will improve our capacity to organise training programmes for athletes, coaches, and sports personnel while providing a more conducive environment for learning, development, and high-performance sports education.”
The former Edo State Deputy Governor also praised President Tinubu for demonstrating commitment to youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, and sustainable sports development through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shaibu further acknowledged the efforts of the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, for driving the implementation of the approved projects.
“I must sincerely appreciate the DG of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for his commitment towards ensuring that these laudable projects become a reality. His efforts clearly demonstrate a strong passion for the growth and modernization of Nigerian sports,” he stated.
The NIS boss emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in the sports sector, stressing that sustainable progress can only be achieved through effective partnerships and institutional support.
“This is the kind of collaboration I have consistently advocated for since assuming office. The future of Nigerian sports depends on our collective ability to work together towards common goals.
“When institutions collaborate effectively, the results will naturally reflect in athlete performance, infrastructure development, talent discovery, and the growth of the sports economy.”
Shaibu also reiterated the need for the full constitution of the National Sports Commission Board, which he believes will strengthen policy coordination, strategic planning, and institutional synergy within the sports ecosystem.
According to him, the ongoing reforms and infrastructure investments are laying the foundation for a new era in Nigerian sports and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations of athletes.
“With the constitution of the NSC Board by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it will complete the circle of administrative reforms the President is carrying out within the sports ecosystem in the country,” Shaibu concluded.
The latest approvals form part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to modernize sports infrastructure, improve athlete welfare, and position sports as a key driver of youth development and economic growth in Nigeria.
