The National Sports Commission (NSC) has inaugurated the boards of four national sports federations, charging members to uphold accountability, demonstrate commitment and prioritise the development of their respective sports.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja on Thursday, saw the constitution of new boards for the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation, Nigeria Padel Federation and Nigeria Fencing Federation.
Speaking at the event, NSC Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the appointments as a call to service, urging the newly inaugurated board members to discharge their responsibilities with integrity and dedication to Nigerian sports.
Olopade emphasised the importance of effective leadership, teamwork and accountability, noting that the success of the federations would depend on their ability to establish clear priorities and deliver measurable results.
“These appointments come with a responsibility to serve diligently, uphold the highest standards of accountability and put the interests of our athletes and Nigerian sports first,” he said.
He added that the boards must work collectively to build stronger federations capable of nurturing talent, improving competitiveness and contributing to the overall development of sports in the country.
According to the NSC director-general, effective federation administration is essential to identifying and developing sporting talent, improving athletes’ performances and sustaining Nigeria’s progress across different disciplines.
At the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Dr Abdullahi Mustapha was inaugurated as president, while Rita Mosindi was named secretary-general.
Engr Samuel Olatunji Jackson assumed office as president of the Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation, with Dorathy Okpo Benard inaugurated as secretary-general.
Rt Hon Jimi Benson was inaugurated as president of the Nigeria Padel Federation, while Israel Inwang was named secretary-general.
At the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel was inaugurated as president, alongside Javan Bernard, who will serve as secretary-general.
The Commission urged the new boards to build on the existing foundations of their respective federations by expanding grassroots participation, strengthening athlete development programmes and creating opportunities for emerging talents.
The boards were also tasked with improving Nigeria’s competitiveness and representation at regional, continental and international competitions.
The inauguration forms part of broader efforts to strengthen sports administration and position the federations to deliver better outcomes for athletes and Nigerian sports.
