Ahmadu Bello University has commended the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, for his leadership in driving the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s sports sector.
The commendation was made by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Adamu Ahmed, during a courtesy visit by an ABU delegation to the commission at the weekend.
Prof. Ahmed described Dikko, a distinguished alumnus of the institution, as a source of pride to the university, noting that his appointment to head Nigeria’s sports regulatory agency reflects the calibre of graduates produced by ABU.
He said the university fully aligns with Dikko’s vision of repositioning sports beyond recreation and competition into a sustainable sports economy capable of contributing significantly to national development.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the progress recorded by the National Sports Commission under Dikko’s leadership demonstrates courage, strategic direction, and a strong commitment to reforming the sector.
“For over two decades, we have watched you provide visionary leadership across different segments of the sports industry, influencing reforms in governance, administration, infrastructure and sports business,” Ahmed said.
“Your journey continues to inspire our students and demonstrates what an ABU graduate can achieve through competence, integrity and dedication to national service.”
Ahmed noted that Dikko’s achievements reflect ABU’s long-standing contribution to sports development in Nigeria, stating that the institution has, for more than four decades, produced not only outstanding athletes but also administrators who have shaped the country’s sports landscape.
He added that the university’s designation as one of Nigeria’s six sports centres of excellence and its hosting rights for the 2028 Nigerian University Games (NUGA) are responsibilities it intends to deliver in partnership with the National Sports Commission.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed that the future of Nigerian sports depends on producing not only elite athletes but also professionals in sports administration, governance, business and related fields.
He assured the commission of ABU’s readiness to collaborate in advancing reforms aimed at building a modern, professionally managed and economically viable sports industry.
Responding, Dikko expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor and the university delegation for the visit, describing the engagement as timely and significant.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to partnering with ABU to strengthen sports development and promote the growth of the sports industry in Nigeria.
The ABU delegation included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Advancement, Research and Innovation), Sanusi Aliyu Rafindadi; the Registrar, Rabiu Samaila; the Director of DAIE, M. I. Umar-Buratai; the Director of Sports, Suleiman Usman Omeiza; the Director of Public Affairs, Auwalu Umar; and the University’s Liaison Officer in Abuja, Haruna Ajo.