Nigeria Diaspora Talents Committee Targets London Youth Games and English Schools Sports Competitions for Talent Discovery
The Nigeria Diaspora Talents Development Committee, recently inaugurated by the National Sports Commission, has begun work to tackle the country’s talent shortage by harnessing the skills of athletes of Nigerian descent worldwide.
The Committee held its inaugural meeting at the University of Hertfordshire’s College Lane campus in Hatfield, chaired by Dr. Tunde Adelakun. Joining virtually were National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade and other members based outside the UK.
In his remarks, Olopade emphasized the urgency of securing the future of Nigerian sports by nurturing talents from a young age.
‘We know for a fact that many of our sons and daughters are excelling globally. This time, we want to catch them younger, bridge the gap, and provide a pathway for their career development,’ he said, pledging the Commission’s full support.
The Committee’s immediate priority is preparing a Diaspora Team for the upcoming National Intermediate Games. Plans include participation in the London Youth Games and English Schools Sports Competitions to identify promising athletes early and connect them with Nigeria’s sporting project.
Discussions also centered on the Multi-Sport Exhibition Event scheduled for July 17 in London, where the Intermediate Games team will be finalized and preparation programs unveiled.
A major initiative adopted at the meeting is the creation of the Diaspora Athletes Monitoring Mentoring and Support Unit (DAMMS). The unit will provide continuous support to athletes of Nigerian origin abroad, monitoring their progress, offering mentorship, and standing by them during both triumphs and setbacks.
Dr. Adelakun explained: ‘It is not enough to scout athletes for competitions. We must be involved in their development, support them through injuries and setbacks, and celebrate their milestones. Only then can we truly convince them to wear the national colours.’
The Committee is led by Dr. Tunde Adelakun as Chairman, with Abigail Katung, David Omigie, and Olympian Sarah Ogoke serving as Vice-Chairpersons. Other key members include Dr. Yinka Idowu (Director of Strategic Planning and Development) and Olalekan Alabi (Secretary).
Talent Identification Champions include Olympians Olusoji Fasuba (track and field), Olufunke Oshonaike (table tennis), Marilyn Okoro (mentor and support), alongside Seyi Olofinjana (football), Jordan Joel (taekwondo and individual sports), Adewale Ajayi and Colin Udoh (Americas talent spotting). Fasuba will also serve as Data Protection and Safeguarding Officer.
Media responsibilities fall to Clement Nwankpa Jr, while Ayodele Ibidapo will drive the Committee’s social media presence.
With these structures in place, the Nigeria Diaspora Talents Development Committee is positioning itself as a vital link between young diaspora athletes and the future of Nigerian sports.
