Philip Shaibu, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), has once again called for urgent reforms in Nigeria's sports system. He stressed the need to revive grassroots development and enforce discipline across all levels, as reported by sportsnow.ng.
Concerns Over Deterioration
Speaking while receiving the president of the Nigeria Grassroots Sports Forum, FCT, Godwin Bamigboye, at the NIS Athletes Development Centre in Abuja, Shaibu lamented that the country's sports have deteriorated in recent years. He said urgent steps must be taken to halt the decline.
Expressing concern over the decline, Shaibu alleged that individuals who contributed to the deterioration of the system are still occupying key positions. He stated, "Sports went down completely in Nigeria, and many of those responsible are still within the system. We must address that if we are serious about rebuilding."
Passion Over Financial Incentives
Shaibu emphasized that sports development should be driven by passion, discipline, and proper planning rather than financial incentives alone. Reflecting on his playing days, he said athletes of his generation were motivated by passion and commitment.
Edo State Model
Highlighting his tenure as Deputy Governor of Edo State, Shaibu pointed to the transformation of Bendel Insurance Football Club as a model of effective sports management. According to him, the team recorded an unbeaten run in the Nigerian league due to strategic planning, discipline, and prompt payment of allowances.
"We ensured proper organization, enforced discipline among players and management, and made funding available. Match bonuses were paid ahead of games, and that translated into results," he explained.
Shaibu also stressed the importance of long-term athlete development, noting that Edo State invested in grooming athletes for four years ahead of hosting the National Sports Festival, a strategy that yielded multiple medals.
Alarm Over 2028 Olympics Preparation
The NIS boss raised the alarm over Nigeria's lack of preparation for the 2028 Olympics, urging the National Sports Commission (NSC) to establish a clear roadmap for success. "We cannot continue to scout players abroad while neglecting grassroots development at home. That is not how to build a sustainable sports system," he said, adding that consistent data tracking and performance evaluation of athletes are critical to success.
World Cup Absence and System Failure
Shaibu expressed concern about the decline of sports in Nigeria, alleging that individuals who contributed to the deterioration of the system remain in key positions. He lamented that the country's football team will not be at this year's FIFA World Cup, even when Africa was given 10 spots, adding that the system and personnel must change if the nation wants progress in the sports sector.
"It is not about apologies. We must ask hard questions and begin preparations early. Responsibility lies with those managing the system," he noted.
NIS Commitment to Grassroots Development
Reaffirming NIS's commitment to grassroots sports development, Shaibu disclosed that the institute has expanded its operations to all six geopolitical zones to strengthen talent discovery and capacity building. "We are ready to partner with organizations like yours to drive grassroots sports development across the country," he added.
