FG unveils RHINSE initiative to transform Nigeria’s sports economy
By Olaolu Joseph
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has launched the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), a groundbreaking strategy aimed at transforming the nation’s sports industry from a competition-driven model to a development-focused, value-adding ecosystem.
The initiative, built on the Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch (RRR) framework, is designed to position sports as a catalyst for Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
It was detailed in a strategy brief signed by NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, who leads the effort alongside Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Commission’s Director General.
Mallam Dikko highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to redefining sports as a national asset, deserving of special support, concessions, and a robust legal framework.
He stated, “This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s sports industry. The RHINSE initiative goes beyond infrastructure investment; it recognizes sports as a tool for unity, cultural promotion, and economic empowerment, with the potential to uplift millions of youth and communities across the country.”
The Federal Government’s 2025 budget, presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024, includes an unprecedented allocation of ₦78 billion for sports.
This capital investment will fund critical projects such as sports infrastructure development, grassroots programs, professional academies, and the establishment of an anti-doping laboratory expected to generate substantial foreign exchange revenue.
The RHINSE initiative focuses on key areas, including:
Institutional restructuring to reposition sports federations.
Grassroots development through school sports and academy programs.
Private sector collaboration to foster investment and ensure sustainability.
Infrastructure upgrades to meet global standards.
Mallam Dikko further outlined the initiative’s ambitious targets to include:
Sports contributing at least 3% to Nigeria’s GDP.
Creation of over 3 million jobs across the sports value chain.
Dominance in the global sports talent export market.
Increased foreign exchange earnings reinvested into the sports sector.
Enhanced international participation and hosting of global competitions.
For his part, Hon. Bukola Olopade emphasized the transformative potential of RHINSE, stating, “This initiative is a deliberate and focused roadmap to enhance sports development in Nigeria.
“It creates opportunities for youth, attracts global recognition, and stimulates investment in the sports economy.”
Through RHINSE, the NSC aims to reset, refocus, and relaunch Nigeria’s sports ecosystem for sustained growth.
The initiative highlights the Commission’s commitment to leveraging sports as a unifying force, a driver of economic growth, and a platform to showcase Nigeria’s talent and cultural heritage on the global stage.
