The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalise hockey through infrastructure, grassroots development, and domestic competitions.
Dikko made this known at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Nigeria Hockey Super League on Saturday in Abuja, where he commended the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF) for successfully organising the tournament and repositioning the sport.
“This tournament perfectly aligns with the vision of the National Sports Commission under the Renewed Hope Initiative for a vibrant sports economy,” he said.
He said discussions with the African Hockey Federation President Seif El Dine Ahmed and German experts confirmed Nigeria’s capability of competing globally with the right facilities.
He disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the rehabilitation of sports infrastructures nationwide, with the national hockey pitch to be upgraded to international standards.
“We have already identified world-class turf in consultation with African Hockey Federation. Once upgraded, Nigeria can host major African hockey tournaments.
“Sports bring Nigerians together irrespective of tribe, religion or background, serving as national asset and driver of economic growth through jobs and tourism,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports Development, Senator Abdul Ningi, called for greater investment across all sporting federations, and not football alone.
“Over 20 sporting federations yet only a few consistently receive attention. Sports development must be diversified so every federation grows and contributes to national development,” he said.
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Nigeria Secures Bronze At African Hockey Cup Of Nations
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Osifo Emefile, expressed his satisfaction with the team Nigeria Police performance at the championship.
“I am very proud of our teams. Finishing second is an excellent achievement and presenting three teams at national championship demonstrates commitment to sports development,” Emefile said.
‘Most Successful Competition’
The President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Simeon Nkom, described the Super League as the most successful championship citing the quality of competition and dignitaries in attendance.
“I can confidently say this is the best championship we have organised.
“The presence of NSC Chairman, African Hockey Federation president, sponsors, partners and media shows recognition hockey deserves,” he said.
On plans to upgrade the national hockey pitch, the NHF President revealed that the facility constructed for the 2003 All Africa Games had outlived its lifespan and no longer met international standards.
“We are encouraged by the Federal Government commitment through NSC to rehabilitate facility.
“Once new turf are installed, Nigeria can host major African tournaments again boosting development,” he said.
Kaduna-based Kada Stars defeated Plateau Tigers 3-2 in the men final retaining title
Kada Queens beat Plateau Queens 2-0 in the women final to also retain their title.
