The Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shuaibu, has called for an inquiry into the actions of previous Ministers of Sports, citing what he termed as a purposeful neglect and mismanagement of the institute in spite of substantial financial support from the Federal Government over the years.
Addressing the current condition of the institute, the former Deputy Governor of Edo State accused consecutive administrations of systematically undermining the NIS for their personal and political advantages.
“It was intentional by the ministry to undermine the NIS for their own selfish interests,” Shuaibu remarked.
He expressed particular concern over the inappropriate use of facilities meant for athlete development, specifically mentioning the Athlete Development Center, which was inaugurated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2007.
“That facility was designed to accommodate Nigerian athletes, not to be rented out or used for personal housing,” he stated.
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“Yet, individuals unrelated to sports are residing there, and someone is profiting from it. There have been numerous ministers, yet the facility remains underutilized for its original intention.”
Shuaibu, appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reform and revitalize the institute, urged the National Assembly to summon all past Sports Ministers from 1999 onward for questioning regarding their involvement in the deterioration of the NIS.
“The National Institute for Sports is meant to be the driving force behind the development of athletes, coaches, and sports scientists. Instead, it has been hindered by those who should have empowered it,” he continued.
Founded in 1974 by then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, the NIS was established as a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Sports to educate coaches, sports managers, and scientists, in addition to researching to enhance Nigeria’s sporting prowess.
