‘President Tinubu’s Sports Vision Drives Reform At National Institute For Sports’

The Director-General and CEO of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has attributed his ambitious vision for transforming Nigerian sports to the steadfast backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Shaibu, speaking in Abuja upon receiving a nomination for an award, highlighted the current administration’s “uncommon commitment” to leveraging sports for youth empowerment, national unity, and economic diversification.

Shaibu emphasised that President Tinubu’s dedication to sports development extends beyond mere rhetoric, citing improved attention and funding for the National Sports Commission and its associated agencies. “I want to thank Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for always showing interest in funding and developing Nigerian sports and using it as a vehicle to empower the youth, unite Nigeria and diversify the economy,” Shaibu stated. He added that the President has issued a clear directive to restore Nigerian sports to global prominence, a mandate the NIS is determined to fulfil.

The former Deputy Governor of Edo State affirmed his long-standing passion for sports, separate from political motivations. He reflected on his tenure in Edo State, where he oversaw the transformation of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and the development of numerous mini-stadia, initiatives designed to revive grassroots sports and provide platforms for young talent.

Shaibu acknowledged initial scepticism surrounding his appointment as NIS Director-General, particularly given his past criticisms of Nigeria’s sports administration. “When I was appointed, I was told I was one of those who had criticised the system… I came and met a wilderness. It was tough at the beginning,” he admitted. However, he prioritised immediate action, including office renovations, over waiting for federal allocations.

Addressing suggestions that his new role was a demotion, Shaibu asserted a different perspective on public service. “If the President finds you worthy out of over 200 million Nigerians, who am I to say no? Any position you are called to serve your country is recognition,” he remarked, defining leadership by impact rather than title.

Upon assuming office, Shaibu convened stakeholders and the NIS management to address the institution’s past challenges, leading to the development of a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan. He stressed the importance of ideas and structure over immediate financial gains, stating, “Nigeria must come before material gains.”

Earlier, a joint delegation from NEWSTAP and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), led by George Aluo, formally presented Shaibu with a letter nominating him for an award. The award recognises his resilience, visionary leadership, and bold reforms at the NIS, as well as his achievements in Edo State’s sports infrastructure development. The group commended his humility and patriotism in accepting the NIS role despite public scrutiny.

Shaibu expressed gratitude for the recognition, viewing it as encouragement to persist with institutional reforms. He reiterated that the NIS, under his leadership, would continue to align with the President’s vision of restoring Nigeria’s sporting glory through structured development, innovation, and dedication to national interest.