NSC sets up Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board

By Olaolu Joseph

The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the composition of its Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, with former Nigerian international Yusuf Ali serving as the board’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

In a statement signed by the Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, the board has been tasked with creating a sustainable system for Nigeria’s elite athletes and ensuring their welfare.

According to the statement, Mr. Bambo Akanni of Making of Champions will serve as a consultant and member of the committee.

The 13-member committee will also have Prof. Ken Anugweje as an adviser and member. Other members include Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa, Salihu Abubakar, Aku Aghazu, Tunde Adelakun, and Prof. Sadiq Abdulahi.

The committee also includes former Olympian Mary Onyali, Hauwa Kulu Akinyemi, Sunday Odebode, and Olalekan Alabi as members, while Bamiduro Olumide will serve as secretary.

According to the Director-General, “All the members of the committee were carefully selected for their expertise and wealth of experience to help ensure Nigeria achieves sustainable podium success at international competitions with a scientific reward system.

“This is one of the innovations of the Commission under the chairmanship of Mallam Shehu Dikko, aimed at professionally managing athletes’ welfare and training grants.”

He added, “What we have done now is to ensure that there is a sustainable system to empower potential athletes who will represent the country on the podium. This is one of many initiatives that the Commission will roll out under the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s sports economy.”