Dikko seeks SWAN’s support for NSC’s new direction

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has called on the Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to support the commission’s efforts to reposition the sports sector. He believes SWAN has a crucial role to play in actualizing the commission’s vision.

Dikko made this appeal while hosting a delegation from SWAN’s Abuja chapter, who visited him to express their gratitude for his longstanding support, particularly during the recent SWAN Week.

He urged SWAN to partner with the commission in achieving its ambitious goals, which align with President Bola Tinubu Renewed Hope agenda and vision of shared prosperity.

“We will engage more with stakeholders through roundtable discussions. Everyone needs to come on board, and SWAN, as a key stakeholder, will drive much of this process,” Dikko stated. “If we are to change the narrative, sports writers must help us communicate this new direction to the public.

“When navigating uncharted territory, people often ask, ‘Where are you going?’ SWAN will help us point the way. Consider yourselves our partners in this journey. If you encounter areas requiring clarification, speak to us directly. Our doors are always open—engage with us before going public.”

Dikko briefed the association on the NSC’s strategic plans, emphasizing that the commission is taking deliberate steps to achieve a significant transformation.

“This is not business as usual,” he said. “We now have a substantial budget allocation for sports activities and projects—unlike before—highlighting Mr. President’s special attention to sports. Previously, funds were allocated without clear specifics, but this time, every initiative is well-defined.”

Dikko outlined the commission’s proactive preparations for international competitions like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games:
“For the first time, we have allocated funds in the budget to begin early preparations for these events starting in 2025, ending the era of last-minute interventions. Late preparations, as seen in the past, are ineffective. This time, we’re ensuring athletes receive their grants early, so we aren’t just funding tourism.”

He also highlighted ongoing projects, including the completion of athletes’ hostels and the high-performance center, which will reduce hotel expenses and attract more activities to national stadiums.

“In the long term, we aim to fully commercialize the MKO Stadium and turn it into a sports city. Preparations start now, with budget proposals to revive the stadium and upgrade other sporting facilities across the country.”

Dikko shared additional initiatives to enhance sports development and generate revenue:

Anti-Doping Laboratory: “We’ve proposed funding to establish an anti-doping lab. Currently, African countries depend on Europe for such tests. Our lab will not only reduce costs but also generate foreign exchange as ECOWAS nations will patronize us instead of traveling to Europe.”

Content Production and Monetization: “We plan to set up a production unit to buy and aggregate domestic sports content for monetization. This will create another revenue stream.”

Collaborating with NBC: “We will work with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to enforce the NBC Code, requiring companies investing in foreign sports to allocate funds for local sports content.”

Support for National Teams: “We’ve budgeted to support all teams representing Nigeria on the continent. Teams will also meet the President for a morale-boosting handshake, promoting the sports brand and attracting private sector support.”

Dikko concluded by emphasizing the media’s pivotal role:
“We’re changing the narrative and need the media to work with us. These initiatives represent our new direction. We trust SWAN to enlighten the public, and soon, the results will speak for themselves.”

Earlier, SWAN Abuja Chairman, Kelechi Onwudiwe, expressed gratitude for Dikko’s unwavering support.

“This partnership didn’t start today,” Onwudiwe remarked. “You have been a steadfast ally, especially during this SWAN Week. Rest assured, we will support you in achieving the commission’s vision.”