NIS To Open South-South Zonal Office In Benin As Shaibu, Enabulele Unveil 2026 Sports Dev’t Strategy

The National Institute of Sports (NIS) is set to open its South-South Zonal Office in Benin City, Edo State, following a courtesy visit by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Philip Shaibu, to Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission.

Hon. Enabulele welcomed Shaibu, commending his significant contributions to the Edo State Sports Commission and the enhanced visibility and professionalism of the NIS. He expressed gratitude for Edo State being chosen as the host, anticipating a substantial boost to regional sports development and capacity building.

“I sincerely appreciate Hon. Philip Shaibu for choosing Edo State as the host of the South-South Zonal Office of the National Institute of Sports. This will significantly boost sports development, capacity building, and professionalism in the state and across the region.”

During the meeting, Enabulele outlined the Edo State Sports Commission’s ambitious 2026 calendar, focusing on: Capacity-building for coaches and officials, and hosting the Niger Delta Sports Festival (20-27 February) for under-19 athletes; Edo Racket Games (April), Governor’s Cup (May) for private schools, and “Women in Sports” tournament (June) to promote gender equality; “Battle of Champions” combat sports tournament (July-September), Edo State Sports Festival, and ongoing National Youth Games preparations; and Benin City Marathon, Intermediate Games in Lagos, and year-end review.

Hon. Shaibu emphasised the NIS’s commitment to talent development and professionalism, particularly highlighting the directive to outlaw uncertified coaches. He announced plans for continuous coach training, structured holiday sports programmes for children, and NBTE-approved courses for elite athletes, including non-literate participants.

The Benin City office, set to commence full operations in February, will serve as a hub for coaching and staff, with a state-level committee overseeing coordination. This is part of a broader national expansion, with six zonal offices established across Nigeria. Shaibu also revealed a 10-year strategic plan for the NIS, aiming for university-level institution status.