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•Urges journalists to uphold ethics, verify reports
From Abel Leonard, Abuja
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has refuted allegations of funds diversion in the FIFA Goal Project in Nigeria, urging journalists to uphold professionalism and avoid sensational reporting.
Chairman of the Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, made the clarification during a seminar marking the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Thursday..
Dikko explained that the FIFA Goal Project in Kebbi State, which was recently misrepresented in an online publication, was fully funded by FIFA and not by the Nigerian government.
“The project began in 2016 and was completed in 2022. It was entirely funded by FIFA. The only contribution by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was the provision of land,” he stated.
He emphasized that the Commission remains committed to the transformation of sports in Nigeria and would not engage in any activity capable of tarnishing the image of the country’s sports administration.
“The National Sports Commission will not be part of any process that brings disrepute to Nigerian sports. We are focused on building integrity, transparency, and progress in all our engagements,” Dikko said.
He called on journalists to always verify information before publication and to contribute positively to Nigeria’s quest for qualification for the FIFA World Cup.
“I appeal to journalists to double-check facts before going to press. Let us use our platforms to inspire hope and unity through sports,” he added.
The NSC Chairman also cautioned politicians against using sports issues for political gains, saying many lacked a full understanding of football administration and the workings of the Commission. He congratulated SWAN on its Diamond Jubilee, describing the Association as “a vital partner in projecting Nigeria’s image on the global sports stage.”
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In his remarks, the Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olapade, acknowledged the pivotal role of the media in sports development and revenue generation.
“Sports media contributes significantly to Nigeria’s revenue base. I urge SWAN to explore digital opportunities through live streaming, advertising, and strategic broadcasting,” Olapade said.
He also challenged SWAN to strengthen its internal organization, noting that stakeholders’ confidence in the media could only grow if the Association demonstrated greater unity and professionalism.
On his part, the Director General of the National Institute of Sports and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, stressed the importance of political will in transforming the sports sector.
“Implementing reforms in Nigeria is never easy, but with strong political will, we can change the narrative of Nigerian sports,” Shaibu maintained.
In a goodwill message, the wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaete Unoma Akpabio, represented by Mrs. Matina Ekong Samson, presented a paper on the inclusion of the girl-child in sports.
She advocated for increased support and collaboration with corporate organizations to promote the development of the Nigerian girl-child through sports.
Earlier, the National President of SWAN, Comrade Benjamin Isaiah, said the Diamond Jubilee celebration was aimed at recognizing the Association’s long-standing contributions to sports development in Nigeria.
He commended members for their dedication and urged them to remain committed to advancing sports journalism.
“Our journey has not been easy, but we have remained steadfast. I urge all members to continue to uphold professionalism and integrity in their work,” Isaiah said.
