Nigeria committed to regional unity through sports – Dikko

By Olaolu Joseph

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering unity and economic advancement in West Africa through sports.

Speaking at the 13th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament at the Velodrome, MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Dikko highlighted the significance of the event under ECOWAS leadership, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“This tournament is a testament to our commitment to strengthening cultural ties and unity in West Africa,” he stated.

He emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to youth empowerment through sports, noting that such events create opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talents and contribute to economic growth.

Dikko also linked the tournament to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), aimed at revitalizing sports infrastructure and development.

He urged participating nations to look beyond medals and embrace the tournament’s spirit of unity and friendship.

Earlier, NSC Director-General, Honourable Bukola Olopade, assured that Nigeria was committed to hosting a world-class event.

In his remarks, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, represented by Ambassador Francis Chuks Njoaguani, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for hosting the tournament, emphasizing its role in strengthening regional unity.