Athletes’ welfare, quality leadership driving Nigeria’s sporting success, says Kola Daniel
Athletes’ welfare and quality leadership have been identified as the key factors behind the remarkable achievements recorded in Nigeria’s sports sector since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu restored the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The Special Assistant on Media to the Director General of the NSC, Kola Daniel, stated this on Tuesday in Glasgow, Scotland, host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where Team Nigeria have already secured six gold and four silver medals.
According to Daniel, the leadership of the National Sports Commission, under Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, has prioritised athletes’ welfare through initiatives such as the instant cash reward policy, which ensures medal-winning athletes receive their financial rewards immediately after reaching the podium, as well as the introduction of training grants for athletes.
He noted that the leadership style of the NSC has inspired confidence among athletes, creating a winning mentality and reinforcing the belief that no target is beyond their reach.
Daniel expressed optimism that the future of Nigerian sports is even brighter, stressing that the ongoing reforms are laying a solid foundation for sustained success across different sporting disciplines.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for redefining the nation’s sports sector through visionary leadership and unwavering support for the programmes of the National Sports Commission.
Daniel further stated that he is looking forward to seeing Nigeria’s Super Falcons excel at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the nine-time African champions are chasing a record-extending 10th continental title.
