Sports
Sunday Dare Hails President Tinubu’s Sports Revolution, Says With Dikko, Olopade Sports Is in Safe Hands
Joel Ajayi
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare, CON, FNIS, has praised President Ahmed Tinubu for transforming Nigeria’s sports sector into a sustainable and economically viable industry.
The former Minister of Youth and Sports Development made a special appearance at the official inauguration of the Elite Athletes and Podium Board over the weekend at Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. He charged the newly inaugurated board to live up to expectations and ensure Nigeria consistently achieves podium performances.
The presidential spokesperson affirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the ongoing structural reforms under the leadership of the National Sports Commission.
He emphasized that President Tinubu recognizes the power of sports diplomacy, which countries now leverage as soft power on the global stage
According to him, President Tinubu is in tune with 21st-century sports development, which is crucial. He noted that when comparing budgets from his time as minister to the current figures, the difference is revolutionary. It takes a president who understands the importance of sports development, particularly for the youth, to bring about such transformation.
“We now have a president who does not believe in episodic funding of sports—one who does not wait for the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, or the National Sports Festival before releasing funds for sports development. The culture of sports development must be continuous, and that is exactly what we are witnessing now,” he said.
While urging the new board to leave no stone unturned in ensuring podium performances at national and international competitions, he said,
“Ordinarily, I wouldn’t have shown up, but I saw a connection between the resources being provided by the Tinubu-led administration and the need to have an elite board like this.
“Sports development and success are not measured by the beautiful stadiums built but by podium performances. You can have all the money in the world, but if the gold medals are not coming in, then nothing has been achieved in sports. To reach that level, you need a board like this.
“I know the chairman has spoken. We will be looking at you, watching you. There is solid confidence in you. They are trusting you.
“If the medals do not come in, we will hold you accountable first. However, I am sure that if challenges arise, there are ways to address them.”
He further stated that with the combination of the NSC Chairman and the Director-General, Nigerian sports is in safe hands.
“I am confident that sports development in Nigeria is currently in very good hands. These are men willing to take risks for sports development, and they bring something rare to the table.
“Their network is massive and extensive, which is crucial for sports development. Beyond what the government can offer, deep-rooted connections with the corporate world and private sector are essential. These two gentlemen are well-positioned in that area,” he added.
Sports
Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports
Cyril Ogar
Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.
Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.
“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.
A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.
Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.
Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.
“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”
He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.
> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.
The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.
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