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The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, NIS, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has applauded the D’Tigres for their victory against Cape Verde in their latest qualifier. Shaibu commended the team for their effort and commitment during the encounter. He said the team displayed resilience and gave a good account of themselves on the court. The NIS DG urged the D’Tigres to sustain the momentum and continue to make Nigeria proud. He noted that consistency and focus will be key as the qualifiers progress. Shaibu added that Nigerians would continue to pray for the team’s success in subsequent games. He expressed confidence that the team have the capacity to achieve more wins for the country. He also praised the Engr. Musa Kida-led NBBF for making the welfare of the players a top priority. Shaibu said the federation’s commitment to player welfare is crucial to the growth of basketball in Nigeria. The NIS boss further urged the D’Tigres to remain focused ahead of their next game. He reaffirmed the institute’s support for the team and called on Nigerians to keep rallying behind them.

The Director General and Chief Officer of the National Institute for Sports, NIS, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has charged Nigeria’s D’Tigers not to lose hope following their defeat to Cameroon in the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers. The hard-fought encounter ended 78-62 in favour of the Cameroonians. The match was played in the opening fixture of the second window of Group E of the qualifiers. Shaibu noted that despite the result, the Nigerian squad showed flashes of brilliance and a never-die attitude during the game. He said the team’s performance reflected determination and the potential to do better in subsequent games. The NIS boss called on the players, the technical crew, and the entire management of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, NBBF, led by Engr. Musa Kida, to remain steadfast. He urged them not to be discouraged by the opening loss. Shaibu added that the qualifiers are still in progress and there is ample opportunity for D’Tigers to recover. He expressed confidence that with focus and better execution, the team can still secure qualification for the World Cup. The NIS DG reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to supporting Nigerian basketball. He urged fans and stakeholders to continue to rally behind D’Tigers as they push to redeem themselves in the next games of the qualifiers.

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has been honoured as the Sports Personality of the Year by Blueprint Newspaper, in recognition of his contributions to the development of sports in Nigeria. The award was received on behalf of the NIS DG/CEO by the Institute Librarian, Dr. Omo Atsenokhai, who represented him at the ceremony. Reacting to the recognition, Shaibu expressed appreciation to Blueprint for the honour, saying the award would spur him to do more towards the development of sports and the repositioning of the National Institute for Sports. The NIS helmsman described the recognition as an encouragement to remain committed to the ongoing efforts to strengthen sports development, particularly through improved training, capacity building and better opportunities for athletes, coaches and sports administrators. He noted that the honour was also a recognition of the collective efforts of the management and staff of the Institute, who continue to work towards achieving the vision of making the NIS a stronger and more effective institution in Nigeria’s sports sector. Shaibu reaffirmed his commitment to driving initiatives that will further enhance the capacity of sports professionals and contribute to the growth and development of Nigerian sports. The recognition by Blueprint adds to the growing acknowledgement of the leadership and reform efforts being undertaken at the National Institute for Sports under the leadership of Shaibu. S. A. Media,Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer National Institute for Sports ADC Abuja.

The National Institute for Sports (NIS), in collaboration with Ray Tiding Consulting Ltd. and the Akwa Ibom State Football Association (AKSFA), has commenced an eight-week Summer Basic Coaching Programme in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as part of efforts to strengthen coaching capacity and promote grassroots sports development. The programme was attended by the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Paul Bassey; the Registrar of the NIS, Mr. Belmond Benson, who represented the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute, H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu; Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umo; NFF Board Member representing the South-South, Hon. Utuekong Nse Essien (PhD), coaches and other stakeholders in the sports sector. The eight-week programme, which commenced at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, is designed to provide participants with foundational knowledge and practical skills in sports coaching. It is targeted at football coaches, grassroots coaches, sports academy instructors, youth leaders, retired athletes, club coaches, sports administrators, graduates interested in a career in sports coaching and others seeking a foundation in coaching. Speaking at the programme, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Paul Bassey, expressed delight at the initiative and commended what he described as the renewed direction of the NIS under the leadership of H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu. He noted the visible renovation and renewed seriousness at the Institute, expressing confidence that coaches in Akwa Ibom who had been eager for such an opportunity would take full advantage of the programme and make the organisers proud. Also speaking, the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umo, urged participants to maximise the opportunity to improve themselves and contribute to the development of football. He encouraged them not to stop at the completion of the programme but to continue learning, evolving and improving, stressing that their continued development would benefit Akwa Ibom State, Nigerian football and the wider African football ecosystem. In his remarks, the NFF Board Member representing the South-South, Hon. Utuekong Nse Essien, PhD, commended the NIS for taking coaching education to the grassroots, describing the initiative as a positive development for the Nigerian football ecosystem. He noted that taking the basics of coaching to the grassroots would help reinvigorate sports development and commended the Director General for the initiative. He, however, called for the programme to be extended to other regions of the country to provide similar opportunities for coaches across Nigeria. Hon. Essien further urged the participants to progress beyond the basic level and continually improve their knowledge and professional competence. He said coaches should not become stagnant after acquiring basic certification but should continue to advance from one level to another in order to contribute more effectively to the growth of sports. The programme is expected to equip participants with basic principles and techniques of sports coaching, practical coaching skills, and the ability to organise drills, exercises and competitions effectively. The initiative reinforces the NIS’s renewed commitment to taking sports education and professional development closer to the grassroots while creating a sustainable pathway for the continuous development of coaches in Nigeria.

Commonwealth Games has set a standard for future competitions…. NIS DG… Comrade Philip shaibu The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, NIS, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has said the next task for Nigeria is to ensure the standards set at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, are maintained in future competitions. Shaibu stated this while addressing journalists at a get-together party hosted by the British High Commission in Abuja. The event was organized to appreciate athletes, coaches, and administrators of team Nigeria for their performance in Glasgow. According to the DG, Nigeria will sustain momentum by closely monitoring the progress of athletes and coaches. He said the institute will continue to introduce them to new techniques and developments in training and sports science to keep them competitive on the international stage. He explained that the follow-up will focus specifically on the progression of athletes and coaches as they begin preparations for the next Commonwealth Games. Shaibu noted that the approach will be deliberate, with regular assessments and technical support to bridge identified gaps. The immediate past Edo state deputy governor stressed that the lesson from Glasgow goes beyond medals. “The take is not about the medal won in Glasgow Scotland game, but the passion and the never die Nigeria spirit that was at play through the Commonwealth games in Glasgow Scotland,” he said. He described that fighting spirit as the true benchmark for future outings. Shaibu also commended the sports management team for prioritizing athletes’ welfare during the Games. According to him, there was no problem with jerseys, accommodation or allowances. He said the welfare arrangement contributed to team cohesion and performance, and urged that the same standard be sustained going forward. He however gave Kudos to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his total commitment to sports sector.

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has joined Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, and the Commission’s Director-General, Bukola Olopade, in calling on Nigerians to rally behind Team Nigeria as the country continues its campaign at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The sports administrators made the appeal following another impressive outing by Team Nigeria, with Chukwuebuka Enekwechi securing a medal in the men’s shot put event. His achievement has added to the country’s medal haul and boosted hopes of more podium finishes as the competition enters its decisive stages. Shaibu, Dikko and Olopade commended the dedication, resilience and patriotism displayed by the Nigerian athletes, noting that their performances reflect months of hard work and sacrifice. They stressed that the athletes deserve the unwavering encouragement of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora, as such support can inspire them to deliver even greater performances. The officials expressed confidence in the abilities of Team Nigeria to win more medals across different sporting events. They urged the athletes to remain focused, disciplined and determined, assuring them that the nation is proud of their efforts regardless of the challenges they may encounter during the competition. For many Nigerians, every medal won represents more than sporting success—it is a source of national pride and a symbol of hope that unites people across ethnic, religious and political divides. The exploits of athletes like Enekwechi continue to inspire young sportsmen and women who dream of representing the country on the global stage. As the Commonwealth Games continue in Glasgow, expectations remain high that Team Nigeria will build on its recent successes. With renewed support from millions of Nigerians around the world, sports stakeholders believe the country’s athletes are capable of producing more memorable performances and securing additional podium finishes before the curtain falls on the Games.

Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has urged the Super Falcons to put their disappointing defeat to the Malawian women’s national team behind them and concentrate on the bigger task ahead in the tournament. He described the loss as a temporary setback that should inspire the team to fight harder in their remaining matches. Shaibu made the appeal while reacting shortly after the match on Tuesday, he therefore encouraged them not to allow one poor result to affect their confidence or determination. He reminded the ten-time African champions that football is unpredictable and that every successful team experiences difficult moments during its journey to greatness. According to him, champions are defined not by their defeats but by their ability to recover and respond positively. “The task ahead is bigger than yesterday’s defeat,” Shaibu said. He called on the players and coaching crew to remain united, disciplined and fully committed to achieving their objective. He expressed confidence that the Super Falcons possess the quality, experience and winning mentality needed to bounce back and compete strongly for the title. The NIS boss also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is eagerly looking forward to welcoming the team back home with the championship trophy. He said the President has continued to demonstrate unwavering support for the Super Falcons and believes they have the talent and resilience to bring honour and pride to Nigeria on the continental stage. Shaibu further reminded the players that millions of Nigerians are solidly behind them. He noted that football fans, families and supporters across the country are praying for their success and following their progress with great hope. He urged the players to draw strength from the love and encouragement they continue to receive from Nigerians at home and abroad. He concluded by describing the Super Falcons as more than just a football team, saying they represent the resilience, unity and aspirations of the nation. Shaibu expressed optimism that the players would use the disappointment of defeat as motivation to deliver stronger performances, restore confidence and reward the faith of Nigerians by returning home with the coveted trophy.

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth of sports development as the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, represented by the Head of Administration, Dr.Maryam Nasko, joined Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olapade Chairman and Director General of the National Sports Commission at the Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland. The gathering brought together sports leaders and policymakers from across the Commonwealth to discuss ways of strengthening sports governance, inclusion, and development among member nations. Leading Team Nigeria at the international engagement is the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, alongside the Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade. Both officials are in Glasgow on a presidential assignment aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s successful participation while also advancing the country’s sporting interests on the global stage. The 2026 Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting is being held under the theme, ” Reimagining the power of sport towards healthier, fairer and equitable communities across the Commonwealth, with discussions centered on promoting integrity, fairness, equality, and good governance in sports. Nigeria’s participation reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to aligning with global best practices while creating opportunities for athletes to excel in a transparent and competitive environment. Beyond the conference halls, Nigerian athletes are flying the nation’s flag proudly. Team Nigeria is represented by 72 athletes competing in 10 sports, including athletics, 3×3 basketball, judo, boxing, track cycling, weightlifting, swimming, para powerlifting, 3×3 wheelchair basketball, and para athletics. The team has already opened its medal account, providing an encouraging start to the competition. For Dr . Maryam Nasko, representing the NIS at such a high-level meeting symbolizes the institution’s dedication to building a stronger sports administration capable of supporting athletes beyond the field of play. Her participation underscores the vital role administrators play in shaping policies that ultimately impact the lives and careers of sportsmen and women across Nigeria. As Nigerian athletes continue their quest for medals, the nation’s presence in Glasgow tells a broader story of ambition, preparation, and unity. While the athletes inspire millions through their performances, sports administrators and government officials are working behind the scenes to secure a brighter future for Nigerian sports—one built on fairness, opportunity, and excellence for generations to come. Signed:Ben Ogbemudia,S. A. Media,Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, National Institute for Sports ADC Abuja.

The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has initiated discussions with the National Institute for Sports (NIS) during a courtesy visit to the Lagos campus on a proposed strategic partnership aimed at advancing sports development, coaching education, and grassroots participation in Nigeria. The visit focused on exploring areas of collaboration between both institutions, particularly in coaching education, technical development, and grassroots sports promotion. Demonstrating its commitment to the proposed partnership, the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation donated rugby balls and other sporting equipment to support the NIS Coaches Olympics being organized as part of activities in the forthcoming students’ week. Discussions also centered on increasing investment in grassroots sports development, talent identification, and creating sustainable pathways for young Nigerians to participate in organized sports. Speaking on behalf of the Federation, Mr. Azeez Ladipo highlighted the significant progress rugby has made in Nigeria over the past few years. He disclosed that the sport is now actively played in 20 states across the federation, with more than 3,000 young Nigerians between the ages of 10 and 18 currently participating in non-contact rugby. According to him, the Federation aims to increase that figure to 10,000 before the end of the year as part of its grassroots expansion programme. Mr. Ladipo further noted that Nigeria’s impressive rise from 24th to 7th in the African rugby rankings reflects the Federation’s sustained commitment to developing the sport. He explained that the NRFF has also set its sights on qualifying Nigeria for the rugby event at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. To support this ambition, he proposed that the partnership with the National Institute for Sports should include the introduction of professional rugby coaching and technical courses at the Institute, enabling Nigerian coaches to earn internationally recognized qualifications and strengthen the country’s technical capacity in the sport. Responding on behalf of the Director General, the Registrar, Mr. Belmond Benson, expressed appreciation to the Federation for choosing to engage the National Institute for Sports as a strategic partner. He emphasized that formal collaboration between the two institutions would be mutually beneficial, noting that the Institute remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote coaching excellence, capacity building, research, and sports development in line with its national mandate. In his remarks, the Institute’s Visiting Professor, Prof. Fasun, underscored the importance of expanding the visibility of rugby at the grassroots level. He stressed the need to educate aspiring athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts on the rules and regulations of the game while advocating for the use of instructional video materials and other educational resources to deepen understanding and encourage wider participation across the country. Representing the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Registrar, Mr. Belmond Benson, received the NRFF delegation alongside the Institute’s Visiting Professor, Prof. Fasun. The President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, Dr. Ademola Are, was represented by Mr. Azeez Ladipo, while the delegation also included Orji Amarachi Favour, an NRFF member and student coach of the National Institute for Sports. Members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), led by the President, were also present at the meeting. The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing that the engagement marked the first step towards a long-term institutional partnership. It was agreed that further consultations would be held to define the scope of collaboration, while Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) would be developed where necessary to formalize the relationship. The proposed partnership is expected to strengthen sports education, expand coaching opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of grassroots sports and rugby development in Nigeria. Information Unit,NIS, Lagos.