NSC DG Olopade embarks on ambitious campaign to market sports
By Olaolu Joseph
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has launched an aggressive campaign to market sports as a national asset.
This move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s (PBAT) Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes elevating Nigeria’s sports sector to global standards. Olopade’s vision for sports development was evident during a breakfast meeting with Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Chairman of Davnotch Nigeria Limited, a passionate advocate of sports and an instrumental figure in grassroots development. The meeting, held at Ochei’s Abuja residence, sought his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s vision of transforming Nigeria’s sports landscape.
Ochei, renowned for his substantial investments in professional and grassroots sports, accepted an invitation to serve as a Patron of the Paralympics Committee of Nigeria. He also pledged to deepen his contributions to the sports sector, inspired by Olopade’s consultative approach.
Reflecting on Olopade’s appointment as NSC DG, Ochei stated:
“President Tinubu’s decision to entrust sports administration to seasoned professionals like Bukola Olopade marks the beginning of a transformative era. I commend Mr. President for selecting highly experienced leaders to address our nation’s developmental needs and bridge existing gaps.
“Your appointment represents a renewed opportunity for sports-loving individuals and corporations to collaborate in building a thriving sports economy. Together, we can champion initiatives that promote grassroots competitions in track events, gymnastics, ball games, and aquatic sports.”
Over the past 15 years, Ochei’s contributions to Nigeria’s sports development have been groundbreaking. He has set the standard for private-sector involvement, particularly in wheelchair basketball, where he has provided inclusive platforms for athletes with disabilities. His efforts have showcased the transformative power of sports in advancing disability rights.
Through his companies, Ochei has also consistently funded the Tennis Federation, enhancing the sport’s growth and international competitiveness. In addition, his grassroots sports initiatives include the construction of a state-of-the-art stadium in Delta State, designed to nurture young talents and foster inclusive community engagement, particularly for individuals with physical challenges.
Ochei underscored the critical role of corporate partnerships in advancing Nigeria’s sports sector. During the meeting, he pledged to expand investments in underfunded sports such as tennis, cricket, and Paralympics. He expressed confidence in Olopade’s professional leadership, emphasizing that Nigerian sports are poised for global competitiveness and economic transformation.
Ochei also committed to rallying support from individuals and corporations to create opportunities for young athletes, foster a culture of excellence in local and international sports, and revamp Nigeria’s underdeveloped sports infrastructure.
DG Olopade, inspired by Ochei’s commitment, highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration.
“This meeting has reinforced my belief in our collective vision to build a thriving sports economy and support President Tinubu’s mission to rebuild Nigeria’s sports sector,” Olopade said.
He continued, “Ochei, my brother, your extraordinary contributions over the years make you a deserving candidate for a national award. Your dedication to nation-building, especially in the sports sector, embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and progress needed to propel Nigeria onto the global stage.”
The meeting signified the start of a robust partnership aimed at leveraging sports as a tool for national competitiveness and economic growth while preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage. It concluded with Ochei assuring Olopade of his continued support for the NSC’s vision and his commitment to advancing the Renewed Hope agenda.
