The Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its leadership for securing Nigeria’s hosting rights for the 48th Extraordinary CAF Meeting and Awards Ceremony slated for October 2026.
The NIS DG gave the commendation when he received former Super Eagles coach, Augustine Eguavoen, during a strategic meeting between the NIS and the NFF at the Institute’s boardroom.
According to Shaibu, the development is not just a significant milestone for the country’s global sporting image, but it also reflects Nigeria’s growing relevance in international football administration.
He said, “I must congratulate the NFF President and officials for this achievement. It is a great feat and a positive image boost for Nigeria. This is the way to go, Nigeria must be seen and heard on the global stage.”
Shaibu, who described Eguavoen as a moving encyclopedia in sports, acknowledged his vast experience and contributions to football development in Nigeria.
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While emphasising the strategic role of the NIS as the engine room for sports development and coaching excellence in Nigeria, the NIS boss said any meaningful progress in Nigerian sports requires sustained collaboration with the Institute.
Eguavoen, in his response, highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional partnerships, noting that the meeting was part of a broader effort to deepen collaboration with the NIS. He also reflected on his personal journey, expressing gratitude to the Institute for shaping his career and professional growth.
The former national team coach commended Shaibu’s leadership, stating that the ongoing reforms and improvements at the NIS are future-driven and impactful.
“What is being done here is not just for today, but for the future of Nigerian sports,” he said.
