… charges leadership on sports development
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, on Monday, in Abuja, swore in the newly elected President of the Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN), Giandomenico Massari and board members of the Federation as he urged them to prioritise the growth and promotion of cycling as a major sport in the country. Massari will pilot the affairs of the 17-member board for the next four years.
Dikko, while administering the oath of office on the board, emphasised the vital role of sports federations in nurturing talent, enhancing grassroots participation and fostering national unity as he also charged the Federation to collaborate with stakeholders, attract private sector investment and maintain transparency and accountability in its operations.
The NSC boss added that the Commission will not interfere in any Federation’s affairs, saying the objective is to support and develop sports in the country.
He said, “On behalf of the NSC and President Bola Tinubu, I congratulate you and remind you of the national agenda to reset and refocus on the development of sports in Nigeria. The mandate before you is clear to transform cycling into a sport that inspires youth, engages communities, and represents our nation proudly at international competitions.
“The NSC will not interfere with any Federation. Our goal is to support and develop sports, taking each discipline to the next level. Cycling is one of the federations with some of the best facilities, and it is important that we maximise them for the benefit of Nigerians. We must also make sports attractive to investors.”
Dikko also charged the new board to focus on grassroots development, adopt an open-door policy, and ensure that more athletes are drawn into cycling through sustained awareness and engagement.
The CFN president, in his remarks, promised to expand opportunities for young cyclists across the country.
“We are just beginning and we are carefully planning ahead. I believe strongly in strategic planning rather than taking impulsive actions. My focus now is on bringing all stakeholders and supporters of this sport together. With unity, we can achieve our goals,” Massari said.
He highlighted the Federation’s recent achievements, noting that Nigeria has qualified at the continental level, winning several medals, particularly in the female category and for the first time, secured World Championship qualifications in both track and road events.
“We also made history by participating in the Olympics for the first time in both road and track cycling,” he stated.
He acknowledged the challenges facing the male category and assured that efforts would be intensified to close the performance gap.
“Our riders are talented, but the competition is tough. With more dedication and investment, we will bridge the gap. For the women, we have already recorded significant milestones, including Olympic qualification,” he added.
The CFN President also announced that Nigeria has been awarded the hosting rights for the African Track Championship next year.
The newly elected members are Giandomenico Massari, president; Dr Ago Habu Abdurahaman, first vice president; Dr Amidu James, second vice president; Iye Mohammed; Dr Igbinosa Emmanuel; Mohammed Bashir; Mr Patrick Omorodion; DCI Farouk Umar Abdullahi; Brigadier General A.R. Bello and Mr Ajibike Julius Babatunde, who are members.
Others are Honourable Sulaiman Ahmed Muduru, Mr Amike Henry Ochupekhai, Miss Sally Ogene, Angela Okoro, Mrs Rahab Kazeem and Miss Tawakalit Omotayo Yekeen.
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