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The National Institute for Sports (NIS), Lagos, on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, organized an interactive workshop for students and coaches aimed at promoting excellence in school soccer through scientific and objective methods of selecting athletes and coaches. The workshop, facilitated by Prof. C.O. Fasan, focused on the theme, “Predicting Success in School Sports (Soccer) Through the Objective Selection of Athletes and Coaches.” The workshop adopted a collaborative, group-based approach that encouraged active participation through presentations and panel discussions. Participants explored the importance of using clearly identifiable and measurable criteria in the selection of players and coaches, emphasizing merit, competence, and performance as key determinants of success in school sports. Practical case studies were also examined to enhance participants’ understanding of effective and unbiased selection processes. The programme brought together Professional Management and Coaching Certificate students, Advanced Certificate students, and coaches, who were divided into six groups to foster diverse perspectives and meaningful engagement. Each group nominated two representatives to present their findings, analyses, and recommendations. The presentations were conducted in two stages, with the first focusing on the identification and ranking of objective selection criteria, while the second addressed the application of those criteria to practical case studies. The workshop concluded with a panel discussion, during which participants exchanged ideas and shared insights on best practices for athlete and coach selection. The session reinforced the National Institute for Sports’ commitment to equipping future sports administrators and coaches with the knowledge and practical skills needed to improve talent identification, coaching standards, and the overall development of school sports in Nigeria. INFORMATION UNITSNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR SPORTS,LAGOS

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has congratulated the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), on his historic re-election victory in the governorship election. In a statement released by his S. A. Media Ben Ogbemudia following the announcement of the election results, Shaibu described the governor’s victory as an endorsement of his administration’s performance and a reflection of the confidence the people of Ekiti State have in his leadership. According to him, Governor Oyebanji’s re-election stands out as a significant milestone in the political evolution of Ekiti State. He noted that since the creation of the state in 1996, the governorship has witnessed intense political competition, with administrations changing through elections, judicial interventions, and other democratic processes. Shaibu observed that several former governors, despite serving their states with distinction, were unable to secure uninterrupted continuity in office, as political transitions often resulted in changes of leadership after a single tenure or through post-election legal contests. He therefore described Governor Oyebanji’s successful return to office through the ballot as a notable democratic achievement deserving of commendation. “The people of Ekiti State have spoken with one voice through the democratic process. Your re-election is a reflection of the trust and confidence they have in your leadership, your development agenda, and your commitment to improving the lives of the people,” Shaibu stated. The immediate past Edo State Deputy Governor further noted that the victory demonstrates the growing maturity of democracy in Ekiti State, where citizens continue to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders based on performance, vision, and capacity. He commended the electorate, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and election observers for their roles in ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process. Shaibu expressed confidence that Governor Oyebanji’s renewed mandate would bring greater economic growth, infrastructural development, youth empowerment, educational advancement, and improved welfare for the people of Ekiti State. “As you embark on another term of service, I pray that Almighty God grants you wisdom, strength, and divine guidance to continue delivering purposeful leadership and sustainable development for the people of Ekiti State,” he said. The NIS Director-General wished Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji a successful tenure and congratulated the government and people of Ekiti State on what he described as a historic democratic accomplishment.

Today, my heart is filled with gratitude as I join millions around the world to celebrate men who bear the title of father. Fatherhood is a journey of selfless love, silent sacrifices, commitment, and countless prayers offered for the well-being and success of our children. It is a calling that demands strength in difficult times, wisdom in moments of uncertainty, and an enduring devotion to family. On this special day, I honor every father whose love, guidance, and sacrifices continue to shape lives and build stronger communities. Fatherhood is a noble responsibility that goes beyond providing for the family. It requires love, sacrifice, guidance, discipline, and a steadfast commitment to raising responsible children and building strong families. Fathers play a vital role in shaping the character of future generations and laying the foundation for a peaceful and prosperous society. On this special day, I salute all fathers who continue to work tirelessly to support their families despite the challenges of our time. Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of your loved ones do not go unnoticed. I also encourage fathers to remain positive role models, instilling values of integrity, hard work, respect, and compassion in our children. Together, we can nurture a generation that will contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of our nation. As we celebrate today, may God bless all fathers with good health, wisdom, strength, and the grace to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with joy and purpose. Happy Father’s Day to all fathers. H.E. Comrade Philip ShaibuDirector-General/Chief Executive Officer,National Institute for Sports (NIS)

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency Comrade Philip Shaibu, on Friday received a special award during the 25th National Silver Jubilee Celebration of the Catholic Men Organization of Nigeria (CMO), Benin Ecclesiastical Province, held at St. Paul Catholic Church, Bishop Kelly Pastoral Center, Airport Road, Benin City. The award was presented to Shaibu by the Catholic Archbishop of the Benin Archdiocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubueze, in recognition of his contributions to humanity, service to God, and commitment to society. The event, themed “Walking with Christ: Reflections on 25-Years of Faith Journey,” attracted Catholic faithful, dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the organization from across the province. Speaking during his remarks at the ceremony, Shaibu said two major factors have continued to drive him throughout his life and public service, his service to God and his background in political activism dating back to his school days. According to him, his faith and activism shaped his resilience and courage in the face of political challenges and persecution. Shaibu also opened up on his political crisis with former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, describing some of the actions taken against him as petty and vindictive. He noted that the former governor revoked his properties in Benin City and his house in Jattu barely one month before the end of Obaseki administration in Edo State without his knowledge. The former deputy governor further said that just six days before leaving office, Obaseki went ahead to allocate the said Benin property to some of his Lebanese associates. “That tells you how evil he was. We must be wary of people who are devilish in their hearts but pretend to be good outside,” Shaibu stated. Despite the challenges, Shaibu expressed gratitude to individuals, religious groups, and supporters who stood by him in prayers during the political turbulence. He appealed for continued prayers, noting that the crisis was not yet over. “I want to sincerely thank everyone who stood by me in prayers during the difficult moments. I still need your prayers because the crisis is not over yet,” he added. The silver jubilee celebration marked 25 years of the Catholic Men Organization’s faith journey and service to the Church and humanity within the Benin Ecclesiastical Province. Signed:S. A. Media,Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, National Institute of Sports.