The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has set a 24-month timeline for the completion of its permanent Secretariat building in Abuja.
NOC President, Habu Gumel, told newsmen on Tuesday that meeting the timeline would depend on the availability of funds.
According to Gumel, the initiative, which aims to enhance the infrastructure and operational capabilities of the NOC, comes on the heels of five hectares of land allocated to it by the Federal Government.
The project site allocated through the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) was unveiled last week in Abuja, during the committee’s board meeting.
The meeting was attended by presidents of all the sports federations the Chairman and the Director-General, National Sports Commission (NSC).
“The new site will serve as the headquarters for the Nigeria Olympic Committee; it is located around the Aviation Village, in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
“The two important leaders in sports , the Chairman of NSC, Malam Shehu Dikko and the Director-General of NSC, Bukola Olapade were in the entourage and led by Gumel.
“The property will be equipped with various sports training facilities which will cater to the needs of various federations affiliated to the NOC.
“The centre will foster a conducive environment for training, development, and sporting excellence as Nigeria prepares for upcoming international competitions, including the Commonwealth and the Olympic Games.
“Primarily, the facility will house the NOC Secretariat as well as streamline the Committee’s operations and enabling a more efficient management of Olympic-related activities in Nigeria.”
He said that the secretariat construction was being carried out in phases and would have not less than five floors.
“The facility is envisioned to invigorate National sports initiatives and collaborations, providing various federations with the necessary resources to nurture local and professional talents,” Gumel said.
Tony Nezianya, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NOC, said some sports training facilities would be sited there.
Nezianya said that the training facilities would provide a platform where athletes could prepare effectively for national and international competitions.
“The establishment of this site is not only a significant step for the NOC but also reflects a commitment to promoting sports development across Nigeria.
“It is expected to create a centralised hub for sports promotion, training, and athletes’ development,” he said