NOC, NSSF Begins Nationwide Olympic Values Initiative in Kano
Oru Leonard
The Nigeria Olympic Committee and the Nigeria Schools Sports Federation have commenced a nationwide Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) seminar in Kano State, aimed at strengthening grassroots sports development and promoting Olympic ideals among young Nigerians.
The seminar, which began on May 11 under the sponsorship of Olympic Solidarity, brought together over 100 teachers and sports officers from across Kano State for intensive training on the International Olympic Committee’s OVEP toolkit.
The programme is designed to equip educators and school sports administrators with practical tools to instill the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect both in classrooms and on the field of play.
Speaking during the event, NSSF President, Mrs. Olabisi Joseph, described schools as the bedrock of grassroots sports development and the starting point for nurturing future elite athletes in Nigeria.
She disclosed that the Kano seminar is the first phase of a three-part national training series, with the next sessions scheduled to hold in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, from May 18 to May 20, while Lagos State will host the final phase from June 2 to June 4, 2026.
One of the resource persons at the seminar, IOC-certified expert, Prof. Abiodun Moronfolu, led discussions and practical sessions for participants, focusing on the integration of Olympic values into school sports and educational systems.
The event was coordinated by Mrs. Kemi Obidahunsi, Assistant Secretary at the NOC in charge of NSSF activities.
President of the NOC, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, joined NSSF officials and other stakeholders at the official opening ceremony, underscoring the committee’s commitment to youth development through sports education.
The Kano seminar concluded successfully on Wednesday, setting the stage for the continuation of the initiative across other parts of the country.
