 The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a strategic partnership with the globally renowned International Management Group (IMG) to overhaul Nigerian football and its leagues, marking a new era for the sport in the country.
In a statement, NSC Chairman, Malam Shehu Dikko, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, emphasizing that IMG’s vast experience will be crucial in shaping the future of Nigerian football.
“Football is not just a sport; it’s a passion that unites us all,” Dikko said.
“With IMG’s unparalleled experience and the support of our dedicated stakeholders, we are ready to kick off a thrilling transformation that will showcase the incredible talent within our borders and captivate audiences worldwide.”
The initiative aims to bring a comprehensive development model to football, from grassroots to elite levels, focusing on creating a sustainable football ecosystem that benefits players, clubs, and fans alike.
Dikko stressed that the NSC is committed to fostering an environment where football can thrive, providing more opportunities for Nigerian talent to shine on the global stage.
In a related development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has also pledged its support in this ambitious transformation.
During a meeting at the NNPC Towers on Thursday, NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mr. Mele Kyari, confirmed the company’s commitment to helping develop and commercialize Nigerian football.
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“NNPC will be a prime partner in the journey to bring back value to our football, to reshape it, re-engineer it and bring happiness to our people,” Kyari stated.
He expressed optimism that NNPC Ltd. could play a pivotal role in the reshaping of Nigerian football, highlighting the profound impact the sport can have on the national economy.
Kyari’s comments followed those of Shehu Dikko, who underscored the importance of football as a critical economic driver in the world’s top footballing nations.
“Football is fundamental to the economies of the best footballing countries in the world,” Dikko said, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had called for immediate action to revitalize the game.
He further explained that the sport’s multiplier effects could be used to stimulate growth in related industries across Nigeria’s value chain.
The partnership with IMG, which has promoted major football leagues such as the English Premier League, was also welcomed as a technical collaboration to ensure the successful development of Nigerian football.
Dikko expressed confidence that IMG’s expertise would be instrumental in achieving the goals set for the country’s football future.
Additionally, it was recalled that NNPC Ltd. once had a football team, NNPC FC, based in Warri.
The club played in the Division One of the Nigeria National League before it was disbanded in 1989.
The renewed collaboration with football stakeholders signals a hopeful return to a more prominent role for the sport in Nigeria’s national landscape.
With NNPC Ltd. and IMG’s involvement, this partnership promises to usher in a new chapter for Nigerian football, creating opportunities for growth, prosperity, and unity through the sport.
