All 14 constituencies to retain seats in Sports Federations — NSC

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive governance in Nigerian sports, emphasizing that all 14 recognized constituencies will retain full representation on the boards of all national sports federations.

The assurance comes as preparations intensify ahead of the forthcoming National Sports Federations elections. In a statement issued after high-level consultations with key stakeholders, the NSC stated that the structure of sports administration in Nigeria remains anchored on the principles of inclusivity, fairness, and transparency.

“No constituency will be disenfranchised in the composition of federation boards,” the statement emphasized, noting that the 14 constituencies are integral to the growth, development, and governance of sports in the country.

The recognized constituencies are as follows:

Zonal Representatives – Six (6) from each of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones

Athlete Representative – One (1)

Technical Representative – One (1)

Military/Paramilitary Representative – One (1)

NAWIS Representative – One (1)

NAPHER–SD Representative – One (1)

Sponsor Representative – One (1)

AFFAN Representative – One (1)

Speaking on the development, the Director General of the NSC, Honourable Bukola Olopade, stressed the non-negotiable nature of inclusive representation in sports governance.

“The strength of our sports federations lies in representation,” Olopade said. “We want to make it categorically clear that none of the 14 constituencies will be excluded from participating in the governance structure of any federation. Inclusiveness remains non-negotiable.”

As part of preparations for the upcoming elections, the NSC has directed the Gymnastics, Judo, and Shooting Federations to finalize their internal processes ahead of the October 18, 2025 election date in Abuja.

According to the Commission, the Judo and Gymnastics Federations will hold their zonal elections prior to the national polls. The Shooting Federation, having already completed its zonal elections, will proceed directly to elect its President and Vice President.