Philip Shaibu Seeks UNIBEN Partnership To Revitalise NIS, Elevates Nigerian Sports

The Director-General and CEO of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called for a strategic partnership with the University of Benin (UNIBEN) as part of a wider effort to reposition the institute and elevate Nigeria’s sports sector to global competitiveness.

Shaibu made the appeal during a courtesy visit to UNIBEN’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edoba Omoregie, SAN.

Shaibu during the meeting, according to a press statement released on Saturday by his S.A. media
Ben Ogbemudia outlined the NIS’s historical foundations, current challenges, and ongoing reforms.

He explained that the institute, initially conceived with a robust vision by its founders, was designed as the “engine room” for Nigerian sports development, responsible for training coaches, referees, sports administrators, and paramedics, alongside academic instruction.

He noted that the NIS once played a pivotal role in preparing national teams, including the Green Eagles, with athletes routinely accommodated and medically assessed at its facilities prior to international competitions.

“Sport is a science, and the NIS was structured to reflect that, including the training of nutritionists and other specialists. Unfortunately, over time, the institute’s core mandate was neglected,” Shaibu stated.

He acknowledged that previous attempts to revitalise the institute, such as the establishment of the Athletes Development Centre in Abuja during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, did not achieve the desired impact despite their promising concept.

However, Shaibu affirmed that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given the institute a clear mandate to address existing deficiencies and restore its relevance. “Upon assuming office, the situation we encountered was not encouraging, but through collaboration with staff and private sector partners, we have significantly improved the environment and initiated crucial reforms,” he declared.

The Director-General disclosed that the institute has reviewed and strengthened its curriculum to meet contemporary demands, introduced new courses, and is exploring alternative funding avenues to ensure financial independence. He added that a 10-year development plan, crafted by experts, will serve as a guiding framework, emphasising private sector-driven strategies and internal revenue generation.

As part of its expansion, Shaibu revealed that six zonal offices have been established across the country, with Edo State serving as the South-South hub, alongside the recruitment of additional personnel to enhance capacity.

Highlighting the purpose of his visit, he stated that the NIS is seeking collaboration with UNIBEN in areas such as degree-awarding programmes, exchange initiatives, and shared use of facilities. “It is part of our vision for the NIS to become a degree-awarding institution. We have already partnered with the Nigeria Football Federation for CAF B and C certifications, and we believe UNIBEN is a critical partner as we move forward,” he explained.

The NIS Chief also unveiled plans to introduce inclusive certification programmes for experienced but uneducated athletes, enabling them to transition into coaching through oral-based training and assessments. “We are determined to address the issue of unregulated coaching on the streets by providing structured opportunities for skill development and certification,” he added.

In response, Vice-Chancellor Professor Edoba Omoregie SAN welcomed the Director-General, commending his achievements and expressing confidence in his leadership. He noted that UNIBEN possesses quality sports facilities, though some require upgrades to meet current standards, and described the proposed collaboration as timely.

“This engagement is significant. We are ready to improve our facilities, share experiences, and leverage your expertise for mutual benefit,” Omoregie said. The Vice-Chancellor also expressed support for the proposed academic collaboration, particularly in curriculum development and degree programmes, assuring the NIS of the university’s willingness to work together towards shared objectives.