Weightlifting Federation President hails Tinubu, NSC for championing sports development in Nigeria
pannigeriannews
2 min read
President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, has credited Nigeria’s triumphs so far at the African Senior Weightlifting Championship to the deliberate and strategic approach of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in revitalising the nation’s sports sector by appointing technocrats to head the National Sports Commission (NSC).
Dr. Abdul made the statement on Thursday in an interview in Moka, Mauritius, where Nigeria is currently competing in the African Senior Weightlifting Championship.
Abdul, in a statement made made available to newsmen by the Special Assistant to the Director-General of the NSC, Mr. Kola Daniel, said , “As of Thursday evening, Nigeria sits on top of the medal standings with 10 Gold, 4 silver and one bronze.
“Ruth Imoleayo Ayodele’s impressive prrformance on Thursday evening helped to increase Nigeria’s medal haul after winning three gold medals to underline her dominance in her weight category.
“President Tinubu knew exactly what he wanted and was intentional in his selection of leaders for the National Sports Commission.
“By appointing proven technocrats like Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, he laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity for Nigerian sports.”
Pannigeriannews.com recalls that Mallam Shehu Dikko, a former Chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), first appointed on December 26, 2014a, has also served in various capacities at FIFA and CAF and has been at the forefront of key reforms within African and global sports governance, bringing his wealth of experience to the Commission.
Dr. Abdul also highlighted the immense impact of Hon. Olopade—a two-time Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State—who has overseen numerous thriving sports projects across the country and internationally.
Speaking on Team Nigeria’s success so far in Mauritius, he said This is no coincidence. The NSC gave us all the support we needed to succeed. When the DG announced thousands of dollars in financial incentives, sat with the athletes, shared meals, and took pictures with them—it wasn’t just symbolic. It was a powerful morale boost for all of them.
“Our athletes felt truly seen, valued, and supported. Today, they competed like warriors—ready to give their all for the nation. That is the spirit this administration has ignited in Nigerian sports.”
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