Nigerian Sports

Reps call for increased budgetary provision for Nigeria’s sports development

The House of Representatives has called for increased budgetary allocation for sports to fast-track the achievement of Nigeria’s sports development objectives.

The call was made during the National Sports Commission’s 2026 budget defence before the House Committee on Sports.

Lawmakers commended the NSC for prudent utilisation of resources and visible improvements across the sports sector, noting that both approval and diligent implementation of budgetary provisions remain critical to sustained progress.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations of NCS, Kehinde Ajayi, on Thursday.

ALSO READ: NIS seeks increased budget to fund, strengthen sports

Presenting the Commission’s proposal, Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, outlined plans to consolidate recent gains through strategic investments in infrastructure and sports development.

“We are building on a foundation to Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch our sports sector. It is built on the back of transparency and measurable results,” Dikko said.

“Our 2026 budget proposal prioritises many areas, not limited to infrastructure renewal, youth talent development and strengthening the sports economy. Sports is no longer just recreation; it is a viable economic driver with commercial value capable of attracting private investment.”

He added that the Commission is collaborating with states, including Bayelsa, Kaduna and Sokoto, to remodel and upgrade existing facilities to meet global standards.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, highlighted Nigeria’s recent international successes and the importance of sustained institutional support.

“With the strong backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people, Nigerian sports have recorded remarkable achievements,” Olopade stated.

“Our focus now is to deepen athlete preparation, ensure timely support for upcoming international competitions and maintain the momentum we have built.”

Femi Akinyemi

Recent Posts

BIPOGA 2026: Mixed Martial Arts earns full recognition at National Sports Festival

He said MMA’s emergence from relative obscurity reflects deliberate institutional backing by the Police....

47 seconds ago

Olopade, Gusau, Ikpeba lead dignitaries for NNL Super Four draw

They’ll capture a league that believes it belongs on the big stage and on April…

6 hours ago

Ex-Ivory Coast footballer sentenced to three years for rape

The footballer was found guilty of having non-consensual sexual relations in March 2021....

17 hours ago

UEFA fines Bayern Munich over fans invasion, pitch-side incidents

A group of fans from the Bayern ultras section climbed over barriers while celebrating, trampling....

18 hours ago

I’m not chasing decision on Man United future – Carrick

"It's a real privilege to be in the position I am, but thriving with the…

20 hours ago

2026 World Cup: Ghana unveils Carlos Queiroz as new head coach

The Portuguese tactician touched down in Accra on Wednesday before meeting the Minister for Sports...

20 hours ago

This website uses cookies.