In a groundbreaking step toward transforming youth development, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) have launched the Joint Committee on Sports and Education.
This strategic initiative, inaugurated at the FME Headquarters in Abuja, aims to integrate education into Nigeria’s grassroots sports framework, positioning school sports as a cornerstone of talent discovery, educational policy, and social progress.
The Joint Committee is tasked with creating a robust system that enables young Nigerians to excel in both academics and athletics. Its objectives include developing strategic plans for grassroots and school sports, establishing Sports Centres of Excellence across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, and enhancing collegiate competitions like NUGA, NICEGA, NIPOGA, and the Principal’s Cup. These efforts aim to ensure that no talented student-athlete is overlooked, fostering a generation of well-rounded individuals.
NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko emphasized the initiative’s significance, citing that 38% of medalists at the recent Paris Olympics were student-athletes. “Through this program and the Joint Committee’s coordination, we will ensure every talented student-athlete has the opportunity to thrive in the classroom and on the field,” Dikko said.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa hailed the initiative as a “defining moment” for Nigeria’s youth. “By merging academics and athletics, we are nurturing future champions and leaders who will inspire and innovate,” he said.
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, highlighted the global relevance of the initiative, noting that developed nations often develop sports talent through school systems. “This is the right time to align Nigeria with this model,” she said.
Both Dikko and Alausa praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in re-establishing the NSC and appointing Dikko as its chairman, crediting him for injecting fresh ideas into the sports sector.
The Joint Committee, co-chaired by Alausa and Dikko, includes senior officials from the NSC and FME, as well as private sector experts, ensuring a comprehensive approach.
The NSC will host the committee’s secretariat, serving as the hub for policy planning and collaboration.
The NSC and FME called on state governments, institutions, private sector partners, and the media to support this national priority.
As Nigeria aims to elevate its global standing in sports and education, this initiative marks a bold step toward unlocking the potential of its youth and redefining talent development.