Sports

NPFL Club Owners Pay Courtesy Visit to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko

Published

2 years ago

November 8, 2024

…Says Elite league can drive Nigeria’s sports economy – Says Dikko

The chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko has has stated that the Nigeria’s elite football league has the potential to play pivotal role in Nigeria’s sporting economy.

Dikko made the statement while addressing the NPFL Club Owners delegation that paid him a courtesy visit, on Thursday in Abuja.

“What happens with the league and how we ensure it works effectively will be instrumental in building a viable sports economy,” Dikko stated, emphasizing that football has the potential to be a powerful driver in realizing this vision.

Dikko, who led the Nigerian Professional Football League as the chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), warmly welcomed the delegation, describing them as “a family” and members of his primary constituency.

Expressing his joy over the visit, Dikko emphasized the importance of unity and shared responsibility for the development of Nigerian sports, particularly the football league.

“Now that we’re in the driver’s seat, we have no excuse anymore not to bring growth,” he stated. “All the plans we’ve discussed over the years on paper —this is the time to take action and make them a reality. We all need to be on deck for the growth of sports in Nigeria.”

“What happens with the league and how we ensure it works effectively will be instrumental in building a viable sports economy,” he added.

Chief Dr. Okey Kpalukwu, chairman of the Forum congratulated Shehu Dikko on his well-deserved appointment and applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fitting a square peg in a square hole. He adviced that the NSC should prioritize sports infrastructure and grassroots development programs.

Ex commissioner of Sports, Gombe State, Mallam Farouk Yarma expressed appreciation to the NPFL Club Owners, emphasizing that all hands must be on deck for all-encompassing growth in the sports industry.

The club owners’ contingent included prominent figures such as Dr. Okechukwu Kpalakwu (chairman, Rivers United), who serves as the Chairman of the NPFL Club Owners Forum, along with Secretary, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku (chairman, Enugu Rangers).

Other members of the NPFL delegation include:

•   Mr. Habila Hosea Mutla (Vice Chairman, North)
•   Hon. Olaniyan Babatunde (Board Member, South West)
•   Mr. Solomon Babanjah (Chairman, Nasarawa United)
•   Mr. Kumbi Titiloye (Board Member, NPFL)
•   Mr. Bashir Badawir (General Manager, Kwara United)
•   Mr. Dominic Iorfa (Board of Trustee Member)

The visit underscored a renewed commitment to advancing Nigerian sports through strategic initiatives, enhanced governance, and stakeholder collaboration under the NSC’s guidance.

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Sports

NHF President, Board Celebrate Prof. Ediga Agbo’s Sultan Azlan Shah Award

Published

6 mins ago

October 24, 2026

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

The President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Engineer Simon Nkom, and members of the federation’s board have congratulated Professor Ediga Agbo on his recognition with the Sultan Azlan Shah Award for his contributions to hockey development in Nigeria.

The recognition comes as the 50th International Hockey Federation (FIH) Congress gets underway in Doha, Qatar, with 112 National Associations in attendance. The congress provides a platform for hockey stakeholders from across the world to discuss the development, growth and future of the game.

Nigeria’s participation, led by Nkom and members of the NHF board, reflects the federation’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration, building strategic partnerships and exploring opportunities to improve the standard of hockey in the country.

Speaking on Professor Agbo’s recognition, Nkom commended his dedication to hockey development, particularly his efforts in mentoring young umpires and building capacity in officiating. He also expressed appreciation to the international hockey community for recognising Agbo’s contributions to the sport.

“Professor Ediga Agbo’s recognition is a proud moment for Nigerian hockey. His commitment to developing the game, particularly through mentoring young umpires, deserves commendation. We appreciate the hockey community for recognising his contributions, and we hope this honour will inspire more stakeholders to invest in the growth of hockey in Nigeria.”

Professor Agbo, in his response, expressed gratitude to the hockey community for the recognition, describing the award as encouragement to continue contributing to the development of the sport. He also acknowledged the support of the NHF, fellow officials and other stakeholders who have contributed to his journey in hockey.

“I am deeply grateful to the hockey community for this recognition. I see this award as an encouragement to continue contributing to hockey development in Nigeria, particularly through mentoring young umpires and sharing knowledge with the next generation of officials. I appreciate the Nigeria Hockey Federation, my colleagues and everyone who has supported the growth of the game.”

Professor Agbo’s recognition highlights the importance of mentorship, knowledge-sharing and sustained commitment to developing hockey officials.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s participation in the 50th FIH Congress offers an opportunity to deepen international relationships, exchange ideas and promote collaborations aimed at expanding the reach and improving the standard of hockey in the country.

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