Internal Tensions, Power Plays, Underperformance Threaten NSSF Stability

As the Nigeria Shooting Sports Federation (NSSF) approaches its upcoming elections, insider revelations and leaked correspondences have painted a troubling picture of political maneuvering, entrenched non-performance, and a last-minute push by certain board members to delay the transition—raising serious concerns about motives, transparency, and leadership accountability.

According to multiple sources within the Federation, a small bloc of board members—most of whom have allegedly failed to contribute meaningfully over the past four years—are pushing for a postponement of elections simply because they lack a credible path back to the Board. These individuals, insiders claim, are not only resisting reform but are also actively working to disrupt a constitutionally scheduled process.

Key Figures at the Center of the Issues:

Maj Gen Hamakin (Rtd)

Claiming to be the Federation’s international representative—despite no record of formal appointment by any international shooting body—Hamakin was reportedly brought into the Board as interim chairman. He has since missed nearly all Federation meetings, failed to submit reports for the committee he chaired, and ignored invitations to support Olympic qualification training. Critics say his renewed agitation is a calculated attempt to return as an “interim president” through the backdoor.

Mr. Saheed Yusuf – Institutional Representative of the Department of State Service also known as DSS

Tasked with representing military and paramilitary institutions, Mr. Yusuf is accused of marginalizing all other agencies while focusing exclusively on his own. He reportedly attempted to force unqualified athletes from his agency into the Nigerian team for the Baku World Cup. When this was resisted, he withdrew his team at the last minute, causing diplomatic embarrassment as bills had already been processed.

Mr. Kingsley – Technical Director Also of the Department of State Service known as DSS

Though occupying a central role, Kingsley allegedly missed all national competitions and activities between 2021 and 2025—only appearing at the most recent NSF in Abeokuta. Following that event, in which state athletes outperformed agency personnel due to grassroots investments, he allegedly directed the Secretary-General to withhold training equipment from the zones—reportedly to protect agency interests rather than national development. This move stalled momentum, particularly in the North-East, where shooting is finally gaining traction.

Personal Ambition vs. Institutional Integrity

Insiders claim these individuals are aggressively pushing for the postponement of elections—not due to institutional concern, but to protect their personal political interests. When contacted, they reportedly accuse the President of being high-handed and not carrying members along.

However, reform-minded members and grassroots stakeholders say the President and his team have prioritized development, transparency, and a merit-based approach that has benefited athletes, improved zone participation, and restored international credibility.

With the Federation at a crossroads, observers across the sports sector are watching closely to see if reform and progress will prevail—or if politics and entrenched underperformance will once again undermine institutional integrity.