The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade were present at the Velodrome of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja yesterday to officially close the inaugural Nigeria FIG Trampoline International Judging Course.
The course, certified by the Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG) in collaboration with the Nigeria Gymnastics Federation, marks a significant milestone in the country’s sporting landscape.
According to the NSC chairman, the course is part of the Commission’s broader sporting reforms aimed at establishing Nigeria as a premier sporting destination.
He stated, “This international course aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of transforming Nigeria into a global sports hub. The ongoing sports reforms are designed to position our nation as a leading sporting destination both on the continent and worldwide.
“I am pleased to see participants from other African countries and to note that this is the first course of its kind in this region. We aspire to create more opportunities like this. We are committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure its continuation, and I believe the benefits will significantly enhance the development of the sport in Nigeria.”
Hon. Olopade expressed confidence that the course would be instrumental in advancing sports development.
He remarked, “We have always aimed to host courses like this and major sporting events so that our people can acquire essential skills. This will enable us to cultivate the right personnel to facilitate the growth of sports in the country and elevate them to a global level.”
Earlier, Expert Trampoline Instructor Christopher Lambert highlighted that the course will usher in a new era for trampoline in Nigeria.
“This is the first occasion that coaches and judges have attended such a course in Nigeria. I have been thoroughly impressed with the progress they have made over these three days. This initiative is novel here in Nigeria and will undoubtedly aid in the development of the sport both nationally and across the continent. The individuals trained in this course will contribute significantly to advancing the sport here,” he observed.
The event concluded with the presentation of Certificates of Participation to attendees by the NSC Chairman.
