Sports
Philip Shaibu, Director-General, National Institute for Sports (NIS), has called for increased private sector participation in sports development, saying government funding alone is no longer sufficient to meet the country’s sporting needs.
Shaibu made the call on Wednesday during the handover of badminton equipment donated by the Badminton Association of Japan to the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the equipment was presented by the Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo.
Shaibu said sustainable sports development, particularly in the area of infrastructure, required greater collaboration between government, the private sector and development partners.
“I have consistently called for collaboration and support from the private sector in any form.
“Relying solely on government funding, especially with the state of our infrastructure, is not sustainable,” he said.
According to him, increased support from corporate organisations, individuals and diplomatic partners will not only boost sports development but also contribute to national growth and security.
The NIS Director-General commended the Japanese ambassador and the Badminton Association of Japan for the donation, describing it as a demonstration of the value of international partnerships in advancing sports development in Nigeria.
He urged the ambassador to encourage other diplomatic missions and development partners to support the growth of sports in the country.
Shaibu also commended the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, for attracting support to the sport and urged other national sports federations to pursue similar partnerships.
“Those making progress in sports should be encouraged, while others should emulate them by seeking support from the private sector,” he said.
The former Edo deputy governor said several improvements recorded at the institute since he assumed office had been achieved through strategic partnerships rather than direct government funding.
Shaibu expressed confidence that the donation would further strengthen sports cooperation between Nigeria and Japan and enhance badminton training and athlete development in the country. (NAN)
Tags: National Institute for Sports PhilipShaibu