To actualize the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), there is need for bridge-building among the stakeholders just as a research-based disposition will help unleash untapped talents, spark grassroots sports development and ultimately boost the sports economy mandate. And when the sector is run successfully, it will play the cardinal role of being a unifying factor in the nation.

The plan has also been revealed that the NIS should be upgraded to a full fledge University of Sports.

These were the view of National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko while delivering his speech at the 50th anniversary and 9th Convocation ceremony of the National Institute for Sports (NIS).

His words, “The path to greater sports development demands unity and cooperation and it must be re-echoed that sports is a bridge builder. I encourage all stakeholders in sports to embrace collaboration, for it is through our collective strength that we can realize our shared goals.

“Let’s continue to leverage our diverse talents and expertise, driving innovation in sports training and research, and creating opportunities for our athletes to shine on the global stage. With the structural reorganization of the Federal Ministry of Sports into National Sports Commission (NSC), we are poised to reset, refocus and relaunch Nigerian sports through the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE) programme. This programme will shift our sports ecosystem from being competition-driven to a value-adding development focused industry, driving national unity and socio-economic growth.”

While commending the Institute’s management for living up to its strategic mandate of producing sound coaches, managers and administrators, the NSC Chairman highlighted their crucial position in actualizing the lofty mandate handed the Commission by the President.

“Students are now having access to state-of-the-art facilities that match global standards that now places them in an excellent position to compete on the world stage. The leadership and infrastructure deficit is now fading away. We must never lose sight of the pivotal role NIS plays in producing sports coaches and managers and it is crucial for the institution to ensure and sustain this pursuit for outstanding performances in sports.

“It has come to my knowledge that the special grassroots football coaching programme by the National Institute for Sports in conjunction with the Lagos State Football Association is a good collaborative effort that has been well received and has further lent credence to NIS mandate. This is a good approach to sports development in the country”, he said.

While congratulating the institution on its 50th anniversary, Mallam Dikko pointed out that considering the giant strides recorded so far, it has become imperative to upgrade it to a full-fledged University of Sports, assured that NSC will champion the process.

He charged the graduands to help effect the desired change in the sector.

“Armed with knowledge and skills, you are the future leaders and change-makers in the sports world. I encourage you to embrace the values of discipline, integrity and excellence that NIS has instilled in you”, he concluded.

He congratulated those awarded Fellowships of the institution and special recognition awards.

Recipients of the Fellowship awards are HE. Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Hon. Kunle Soname, Dr. Danladi Bako, Ms Lucy Ejike, Mr. Allen Onyema, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo and Dr. Awoture Eleyae (Post Humous). Ace broadcaster Modele Sharafa Yusuf and Comptroller -General of Nigeria Customs Service Bashir Adewale bagged special recognition awards.