The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu says the institute will partner with the National Assembly to identify and nurture young Nigerian athletes across their constituencies.
Shaibu, who is the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, also stressed the importance of deploying qualified coaches trained by the NIS at local, state, and federal levels to strengthen grassroots sports development.
Speaking at the grand finale of a football tournament organised by Patrick Umoh, Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions and Member representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency, at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akwa Ibom State, Shaibu said the institute was committed to a grassroots-driven strategy.
“This is an opportunity to inform you that we at the NIS are ready to partner with the National Assembly in discovery of young athletes for Nigeria,” Shaibu stated.
He noted that legislators’ reach across their constituencies provides a direct link to communities where future stars can be found.
“I know through you all in your various constituents, we can reach out to grassroots where the children are. Remember that through sports, we can curb criminal activities in this country,” Shaibu said.
The NIS boss also warned against the engagement of uncertified coaches in Nigeria, insisting that only professionally trained personnel should handle young athletes.
“We will no longer tolerate anybody who is not a certified coach in this country. The reason is that these children are the foundation of our athletes. What you impact on them is what will show as they grow up. Therefore, we in NIS are saying no more quackery in coaches in Nigeria. If you want to coach, you must earn the qualifications,” Shaibu declared.
He reaffirmed the institute’s readiness to collaborate with lawmakers through constituency projects to transform the nation’s sporting ecosystem.
“Once again, we are ready to partner with you through your various constituency projects in achieving this laudable objective in turning the sporting eco-system in our country,” he said.
PIAK