Tinubu’s Commitment to Sports Inspires Reform at NIS, Says Shaibu

Abuja – The Director-General and CEO of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has credited President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering support for his vision to transform Nigerian sports.

Speaking on Wednesday while receiving a delegation that formally presented him with a nomination for an award, Shaibu highlighted the current administration’s dedication to repositioning sports as a tool for youth empowerment, national unity, and economic diversification.

“President Tinubu’s commitment to sports development goes beyond rhetoric,” Shaibu said. “Under his leadership, the National Sports Commission and its agencies are receiving improved attention and funding. I thank him for consistently supporting sports as a vehicle to empower our youth, unite Nigeria, and diversify the economy.”

Shaibu added that the President has issued a clear mandate to restore Nigerian sports to global prominence, a goal the NIS is determined to achieve.

The former Deputy Governor of Edo State emphasized that his passion for sports is longstanding and not politically motivated. Reflecting on his tenure in Edo State, he recalled efforts to revamp the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and develop several mini-stadia, initiatives aimed at reviving grassroots sports and creating platforms for young talents.

“When I was appointed DG of the NIS, I was met with scepticism from some who remembered my past criticisms of sports administration. But I chose action over excuses,” Shaibu admitted. He explained that initial steps included renovating offices to provide a conducive working environment rather than waiting for federal allocations.

Addressing suggestions that his NIS role was a demotion, he said, “Public service should be measured by impact, not title. Any position to serve the country is recognition.”

Shaibu revealed that upon assuming office, he convened stakeholders to assess the Institute’s challenges. The outcome was a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan to restore relevance, guided by the principle that sports should prioritize structure and ideas over immediate financial gains.

Earlier, the National Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and NEWSTAP formally presented Shaibu with a letter recognizing his resilience, visionary leadership, and bold reforms. The groups cited his stakeholder engagement, strategic direction, and achievements in Edo State, particularly the revitalization of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and construction of mini-stadia, as catalysts for grassroots sports development. They praised his acceptance of the NIS role despite public criticism as an act of humility, patriotism, and dedication to national service.

In response, Shaibu expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as motivation to remain focused on institutional reforms. He reaffirmed that the NIS under his leadership would continue to align with President Tinubu’s vision of rebuilding Nigeria’s sporting glory through structure, innovation, and national interest.