No African Country Matches Nigeria’s Sports Infrastructure Spread — Dikko

Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), has insisted that no nation on the continent rivals Nigeria in the spread of its sports infrastructure, despite ongoing concerns from athletes and stakeholders about the condition of facilities.

Speaking on the sidelines of the African Union Sports Council Region 2 meeting in Abuja, Dikko pointed to Nigeria’s vast network of stadiums and sporting venues as a foundation for becoming a leading sports hub in Africa.

He, however, acknowledged the need to raise standards, stressing that existing facilities must be upgraded, properly maintained and aligned with international best practice.

“We must upscale the level of our infrastructures and ensure they are maintained the right way,” Dikko said, adding that with the necessary improvements, Nigeria could host major tournaments at short notice across different parts of the country.

He cited the Niger Delta as a prime example, noting that stadiums across Delta, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states could collectively stage large-scale competitions within the region.

Dikko explained that the Abuja seminar was designed to harmonise sports development efforts across the continent under a unified framework championed by the African Union. The meeting, he said, allows participating countries to compare strategies and draw lessons from one another.

According to him, several African nations have shown keen interest in Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, particularly efforts to reposition sport as a driver of economic growth and social impact.

He also disclosed that AU inspectors recently concluded a two-day assessment of Nigeria’s plans related to the African Games, expressing admiration for the country’s infrastructure and overall potential.

To further strengthen the sector, Dikko revealed that the Federal Government has approved the establishment of a National Sports Infrastructure Development Board. The body is expected to mobilise funding for the rehabilitation and upgrade of sporting facilities nationwide, covering both elite and grassroots development.

The initiative, he noted, would be key to unlocking Nigeria’s capacity to host major events and to fully harness sport as a tool for national development.