National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Shehu Dikko, has emphasised the Commission’s commitment to strengthening support for all Nigerian sports teams competing on the continental stage, in order to facilitate their success.
Dikko made this remark during a visit from the chairman of Enyimba FC and ex Super Eagles International, Nwankwo Kanu, on Thursday, in Abuja.
Highlighting Enyimba FC’s role as Nigeria’s pride in African football, Dikko expressed gladness in the club’s legacy and reiterated the need for technical, logistical, and likely financial support to help Nigerian teams achieve success and bring glory to the nation.
He said, “It’s time to change the narrative on the continent for every sport, not only football – we can’t sit back. For teams in different in sports that qualify for continental competitions, they should be provided with more robust technical, logistical, and possibly financial support from the Commission and their federations, as their success will bring glory to the entire nation. We want to turn the page.
“For Enyimba FC, the standard has been set very high from the previous administrators of the club. You have a duty to maintain the standard and build on what you met and we’re sure you’re succeeding. Enyimba still holds Nigeria’s flag on the continent, and we’re proud of the club’s heritage.”
As part of his vision for motivating Nigerian athletes, Dikko stated that teams qualifying for continental events should receive a presidential handshake from the onset.
“Part of the motivation system is for us to ensure any contingent that qualifies for the continent gets a presidential handshake. This move will place our teams in the heart of the presidency, creating an awareness that will attract government, private, and corporate support,” he explained.
He also called on former athletes to contribute to the development of grassroots sports. “Rally your colleagues and ex-internationals. Many of them benefited from grassroots development; it’s time to rebuild that system and support the next generation.”
Nigerian football legend Kanu Nwankwo praised Dikko’s leadership and assured him of support from former Super Eagles players. “We’re congratulating you, Dikko, and Nigerians are happy with your appointment. We’re confident we’ll see progress.
“A sports legend who cannot give back to the nation or society cannot be called a true legend,” Kanu said.
“On behalf of Super Eagles legends, I assure you of our 150% support for your vision. We want to build on the progress we’ve made,” Kanu said.
The remarks from both Dikko and Kanu underscore a shared commitment to advancing Nigerian sports, reinforcing national pride, and strengthening support for the grassroots as well as teams on the international stage.
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