The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to restoring Nigeria’s prominence in international sports.

Speaking with Sporting Tribune at the 22nd National Sports Festival, known as the ‘Gateway Games Ogun 2024’, taking place in Abeokuta, Olopade emphasised that the NSC, under the leadership of Shehu Dikko, is focused on revitalising Nigeria’s sports sector through initiatives designed to enable the nation’s athletes to compete effectively on the global stage.

He pointed out that while Nigeria is rich in talent, it suffers from inadequate sports infrastructure.

The former commissioner for youth and sports and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) for the festival noted that the facilities provided by the Dapo Abdun administration would significantly contribute to sports development, not only in Ogun State but across Nigeria.

“The NSC is dedicated to organising competitions that will not only identify new talents but also provide athletes with ample opportunities to refine their skills and succeed internationally,” he said.

Olopade highlighted the introduction of the Invited Junior Athletes program as a strategic initiative aimed at preparing young athletes for future international competitions.

He also mentioned that the Commission is developing additional programs to ensure athletes have continuous competition and exposure.

Furthermore, he called on the private sector to collaborate with the Commission to achieve remarkable success in international sports, encouraging them to utilize the power of sports to promote their products and services globally without incurring significant costs, asserting that sports is an effective means of reaching billions of people effortlessly.

The Director General also commended the various states participating in the ongoing National Sports Festival for their performance.

By Niyi Alebiosu