House of Representatives Calls for Increased Budgetary Provision to Accelerate National Sports Development

Oru Leonard 

The House of Representatives has called for increased budgetary allocation for sports to fast-track the achievement of Nigeria’s sports development objectives.

The call was made during the Commission’s 2026 budget defence before the House Committee on Sports. Lawmakers commended the NSC for prudent utilization of resources and visible improvements across the sports sector, noting that both approval and diligent implementation of budgetary provisions remain critical to sustained progress.

Presenting the Commission’s proposal, Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, outlined plans to consolidate recent gains through strategic investments in infrastructure and sports development.

“We are building on a foundation to Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch our sports sector. It is built on the back of transparency and measurable results,” Dikko said. “Our 2026 budget proposal prioritizes many areas and not limited to infrastructure renewal, youth talent development and strengthening the sports economy. Sports is no longer just recreation; it is a viable economic driver with commercial value capable of attracting private investment.”

He added that the Commission is collaborating with states including Bayelsa, Kaduna and Sokoto to remodel and upgrade existing facilities to meet global standards.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, highlighted Nigeria’s recent international successes and the importance of sustained institutional support.

“With the strong backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian people, Nigerian sports has recorded remarkable achievements,” Olopade stated. “Our focus now is to deepen athlete preparation, ensure timely support for upcoming international competitions and maintain the momentum we have built.”

(NSC Media, February 12th 2026)