Democracy Day: Shaibu Urges Nigerians to Support Reforms, Harness Sports for National Development
Oru Leonard
Democracy Day: Shaibu Urges Nigerians to Support Reforms, Harness Sports for National Development
ABUJA — Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Institute of Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has called on Nigerians to remain united, hopeful, and supportive of ongoing reforms as the country commemorates Democracy Day 2026.
In a message marking the June 12 celebration, Shaibu described Democracy Day as a significant reminder of the nation’s commitment to freedom, justice, national unity, and democratic governance, while paying tribute to the heroes and heroines whose sacrifices laid the foundation for Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that Nigeria is currently undergoing critical reforms under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging citizens not to lose faith despite temporary challenges associated with the transformation process.
According to him, the administration’s economic policies and institutional reforms are designed to build a more stable, productive, and prosperous nation capable of creating greater opportunities for both present and future generations.
Shaibu also emphasized the importance of supporting efforts to tackle insecurity, noting that peace and security remain essential to national growth, investment, education, sports development, and overall progress.
“The government and security agencies continue to work tirelessly to safeguard lives and property while strengthening the nation’s security architecture,” he stated.
Speaking from the perspective of sports development, the NIS boss highlighted the growing recognition of sports as a powerful tool for youth empowerment, national unity, economic growth, and international diplomacy.
He said sports have consistently brought Nigerians together across ethnic, religious, and political divides, demonstrating the strength of the country’s shared national identity.
Shaibu reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Institute of Sports (NIS)� to developing world-class athletes, coaches, sports administrators, and technical personnel capable of driving Nigeria’s sporting excellence and contributing to national development.
According to him, investment in sports represents an investment in the future of Nigerian youth and the country’s long-term development goals.
He further stressed that as Nigeria’s democracy continues to mature, the nation must harness the enormous potential of sports to promote peace, create jobs, discover talents, reduce social vices, and project a positive image of the country globally.
The NIS chief urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and committed to democratic ideals, while supporting efforts aimed at building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous nation.
He also offered prayers for President Tinubu, the armed forces, security agencies, athletes, sports administrators, and the wider sporting community, expressing hope for continued peace, unity, stability, and prosperity across the country.
Shaibu concluded by wishing Nigerians a happy Democracy Day and expressing confidence that the nation’s democracy would continue to flourish in the years ahead.
