The National Sports Commission (NSC) has inaugurated its Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, appointing former Nigerian international Yusuf Ali as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
In a statement signed by the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, the board is tasked with creating a sustainable framework to enhance the welfare of Nigeria’s elite athletes and ensure their long-term development.
The statement also revealed that Bambo Akanni, founder of Making of Champions, will serve as a consultant and member of the 13-member committee.
Prominent figures on the board include Prof. Ken Anugweje, who will act as an adviser and member, alongside Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa, Salihu Abubakar, Aku Aghazu, Tunde Adelakun, and Prof. Sadiq Abdulahi.
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The committee also features former Olympian Mary Onyali, Hauwa Kulu Akinyemi, Sunday Odebode, and Olalekan Alabi as members, with Bamiduro Olumide serving as the board’s secretary.
Speaking on the initiative, Hon. Olopade noted, “All members of the committee were carefully selected for their expertise and wealth of experience. This will help ensure Nigeria achieves sustainable podium success at international competitions, supported by a scientific reward system.”
He added that the creation of the board is part of the innovations introduced under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko to address key issues such as athletes’ welfare and training grants.
“Our aim is to establish a lasting system that empowers potential athletes to bring glory to Nigeria. This is one of many initiatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative for the Nigerian sports economy,” Olopade stated.
The board is expected to implement strategies that will elevate Nigerian sports and enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.