NSC DG Olopade mandates stakeholders to sustainably invest in sport

NSC DG Olopade mandates stakeholders to sustainably invest in sport

From our journalist

Abuja (Core Reporters) – Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) of Nigeria, Hon. Bukola Olopade, called on corporate organisations, private investors and sports stakeholders to sustainably invest in Nigeria’s sports sector to build a commercially viable industry with lasting development impact.

Olopade made the call during an executive strategy meeting with key sports stakeholders, corporate partners and sports administrators, where he highlighted the need for transparent financing, greater private sector participation and sustained investment in grassroots sports and elite infrastructure.

“Legacy means a lot to me. Show us the money and let’s build the legacy together,” said the NSC Director General, underlining the Commission’s commitment to building a sustainable sports ecosystem that can thrive beyond individual administrations.

He identified commercial viability, accountability, infrastructure development and public-private partnerships as key pillars of the Commission’s strategy to reposition sport as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth.

On commercial viability and accountability, Olopade said the Commission is working to establish transparent frameworks to ensure that corporate investments and public funds deliver measurable results and tangible improvements across all sporting disciplines.

He also stressed the need to direct investments towards modern sports facilities, grassroots talent identification programs and long-term athlete welfare initiatives to strengthen Nigeria’s sports development pipeline.

The NSC Director General also called for a strengthening of public-private partnerships, urging Nigerian businesses, international organizations and private investors to collaborate with the Commission in developing sustainable sports initiatives that can survive individual mandates.

According to him, the Commission is committed to institutional reforms that will transform sport from a predominantly recreational activity into a viable economic sector capable of creating opportunities for youth, promoting national unity and strengthening Nigeria’s international standing.

The Commission has urged corporate organisations, brand sponsors and sports federations to align with its strategic direction as it prepares to introduce new national sports infrastructure and development initiatives.

The NSC said the proposed initiatives will support its wider ambition to create a sustainable sports ecosystem driven by investment, accountability and long-term development.