Key stakeholders in Nigerian sports have accused the National Sports Commission (NSC) of sabotaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to reform and revitalize the nation’s sports sector.
At a press briefing held in Abuja, the Presidents of the Judo Federation of Nigeria, Dr. Musa Oshodi, and the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria, Kelvin Erhunmwunse, voiced strong concerns over what they described as the “lack of character and competency” of the NSC’s Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade.
Dr. Oshodi criticized the NSC’s interference in recent sports federation elections, alleging that the Commission has overstepped its mandate. “The way the recent federation elections were handled is highly disturbing. The NSC should not meddle in the internal affairs of federations,” he said.
He further accused the Director-General of undermining President Tinubu’s sports agenda. “It is clear the DG is pushing a personal agenda that runs contrary to the President’s vision. His conduct suggests he sees himself as untouchable,” Oshodi added.
Calling for urgent intervention, Dr. Oshodi appealed directly to President Tinubu: “Mr. President must act now to save Nigerian sports from collapse. The current leadership of the Commission is derailing the reforms we all hoped for.”
Echoing these sentiments, Gymnastics Federation President Kelvin Erhunmwunse expressed frustration over what he described as deliberate efforts to frustrate progress. “There’s clear evidence of sabotage. The confusion and misinformation we’re seeing are being orchestrated by people within the system.”
Erhunmwunse praised President Tinubu’s initiative to create a strong and independent Sports Commission but warned that its implementation is being mishandled. “What was meant to be a transformative initiative is now being run like a private business. The current leadership shows blatant disregard for global sports standards and constitutional authority,” he said.
He also cautioned that the situation, if left unchecked, could tarnish Nigeria’s image on the international stage and make the country’s sports policies appear unserious.
The stakeholders are now calling on President Tinubu to urgently review the leadership of the NSC and take decisive action to restore credibility and professionalism in Nigerian sports administration.