The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced plans to collaborate with the National Institute of Sports (NIS) to rejuvenate Nigeria’s struggling sports sector and harness its potential for national development.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced plans to collaborate with the National Institute of Sports (NIS) to rejuvenate Nigeria’s struggling sports sector and harness its potential for national development.
This was disclosed by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a courtesy visit from the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the NIS, Mr. Phillip Shaibu, on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, in Abuja.
General Musa stressed the critical role sports play in fostering physical health, unity, discipline, and youth empowerment, adding that investing in sports could help reduce crime and insecurity across the country.
“Sports is more than just recreation — it is a vital tool for national development. It helps channel youthful energy positively and can greatly reduce the allure of criminality and insecurity,” General Musa said.
He expressed concern over the current state of sports in Nigeria, which he said no longer reflects the country’s potential and past achievements.
“It’s disheartening to see how far we’ve fallen behind. We must change the narrative and restore the pride of Nigerian sports. The Defence Headquarters is ready to play a key role in this revival,” the CDS added.
In his remarks, Mr. Phillip Shaibu explained that his visit to the DHQ was aimed at identifying strategic partners and charting a new course for sports development in line with presidential directives to reactivate sporting activities nationwide.
“We’re here to create awareness and engage key stakeholders like the military to reposition sports in Nigeria. The potential is massive — sports can rival any other sector in driving economic and social growth,” Shaibu said.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, especially in training and coaching development, noting that the military’s discipline and structure make it a natural partner in promoting excellence in sports.
“There’s a directive from the presidency to reinvigorate sports across all levels. We believe the Armed Forces can play a key role in implementing this vision,” Shaibu added.
The partnership is expected to open up new opportunities for youth development, talent discovery, and capacity building — with a long-term goal of restoring Nigeria’s dominance in regional and global sports competitions.