National Sports Commission calls for more synergy between clubs/federation

Posted : 04 January 2025

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of clubs and teams across all sports in collaboration with various sports federations.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Association of Badminton Clubs in Nigeria (ABCIN), NSC Chairman Dikko emphasized the vital role clubs play in grassroots sports development.

In his words:
"I have heard all you’ve said, and your proposals align closely with our vision.

"Our goal is to create a thriving domestic club ecosystem—not just in badminton but across all sports. Without clubs and the people who maintain them at the grassroots level, the system cannot function.

"For instance, you cannot have a league without clubs, just as you cannot have clubs without players. Similarly, you cannot have sports infrastructure without owners, nor can you be an owner without a sport. It's a cycle where everyone depends on one another. There must be synergy among all parties for things to work effectively."

Dikko used the visit by the badminton club owners to emphasize the need for a stronger synergy between sports federations and clubs.

"We will work to create an enabling environment for federations and leagues to support and elevate clubs," he said. "While there is some synergy now, we need to enhance it, making it more professional and in the best interest of the sport."

He continued, "Without you—the clubs—and what you are doing with the players, the federations can achieve very little.

"Federations cannot simply pick players off the streets to compete; they must identify talent from clubs, competitions, or similar platforms. While individual players can operate privately, to reach the next professional level, they need federations.

"We all must function as a family—NSC, federations, clubs, and players—to make this work."

Dikko stressed the importance of inclusivity in decision-making processes, ensuring that no stakeholder is left behind.

"In the new year, we will bring the Badminton Federation to the table to strengthen the bond between all parties.

"This bond is crucial for the aggressive grassroots sports development we envision. Club funders must have a voice at the decision-making table. This is standard global practice.

"Players, too, must have a say, as there can be no clubs without players. Rest assured, badminton is a priority for us, and we fully support the federation’s efforts. We will ensure everything works out without compromising anyone’s interests," he concluded.

Earlier, ABCIN Chairman Hon. Imran Usman Jibrin, representing over 135 badminton clubs nationwide, pledged the association's support for the NSC's efforts to develop badminton in Nigeria.

He proposed a closer partnership between the federation and clubs to nurture talent and advocated for ABCIN's inclusion in the highest decision-making levels of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria during the upcoming federation elections.

National Sports Commission calls for more synergy between clubs/federation

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