NIS DG Shaibu Demands Urgent Overhaul of Nigeria’s Sports System

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s sports system, stressing the need to revive grassroots development and enforce discipline across all levels.

Shaibu made the remarks while receiving the President of the Nigeria Grassroot Sports Forum, FCT, Godwin Bamigboye, during a courtesy visit to the NIS Athletes Development Centre in Abuja.

Recounting his personal journey, Shaibu revealed that his football career began in the Federal Capital Territory, where he played under Youth Football structures. He noted that youth competitions at the U-15, U-16, and U-17 levels once gave Nigerian players early exposure to international tournaments, an approach he said must be revived.

‘Youth Football was once strong pillars of grassroots football development. Young players were discovered early and nurtured through structured competitions. That system gave many of us the foundation to grow professionally,’ he said.

Expressing concern over the decline of sports in Nigeria, Shaibu alleged that individuals who contributed to the deterioration of the system are still occupying key positions.

‘Sports went down completely in Nigeria, and many of those responsible are still within the system. We must address that if we are serious about rebuilding,’ he stated.

He emphasized that sports development should be driven by passion, discipline, and proper planning rather than financial incentives alone. Reflecting on his playing days, Shaibu said athletes of his generation were motivated by passion and commitment.

Highlighting his tenure as Deputy Governor of Edo State, Shaibu pointed to the transformation of Bendel Insurance Football Club as a model of effective sports management.

According to him, the team recorded an unbeaten run in the Nigerian league due to strategic planning, discipline, and prompt payment of allowances.

‘We ensured proper organization, enforced discipline among players and management, and made funding available. Match bonuses were paid ahead of games, and that translated into results,’ he explained.

Shaibu also stressed the importance of long-term athlete development, noting that Edo State invested in grooming athletes for four years ahead of hosting the National Sports Festival, a strategy that yielded multiple medals.