By Oluchi Tobex Tobe-Chukwu FSWAN MCS CSS
The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has lauded the undeniable resurgence of Nigerian track and field, assuring that the Federal Government remains deeply committed to the welfare, financial backing, and overall success of the nation’s athletes.
Speaking on the recent string of spectacular performances by Nigerian contingents on the global stage, Olopade expressed immense pride in the new generation of stars putting the country back on the global sports map, while acknowledging that there is still more work to be done.
“Nigeria is experiencing an obvious resurgence in athletics, and the world is beginning to take notice,” Olopade stated. “From Miracle’s miraculous run at the U20 World Championships in Oregon to Jessica Orji emerging as a new poster girl for African athletics, and the likes of Kanyinsola, Ashe, Nathaniel, and Ogazi taking Glasgow by storm, something truly positive is happening in Nigerian track and field. But we are not there yet.”
To sustain and build upon this momentum, the Director-General emphasized that the NSC has fundamentally shifted its approach to athlete welfare. He highlighted the implementation of training grants—which were introduced last year—as proof of the Commission’s dedication to providing necessary resources early on.
Olopade stressed the psychological and emotional importance of this support, noting that the Commission must continue to engage with the athletes as their own children, providing them with the utmost care and commitment.
“For our athletes, everything that needs to be given, we have started giving,” he affirmed.
The DG further revealed that this athlete-first approach is a unified vision shared alongside NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, and is heavily driven by a direct directive from the Presidency.
“We are determined, and I know I speak the mind of Mallam Shehu Dikko as well, to ensure that this commitment goes beyond athletics,” Olopade declared. “Wherever our athletes are competing, the mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is very clear: ensure there is money in the pockets of our children, ensure they receive the right care, and ensure they perform at the highest level of sport.”
