66th Independence anniversary: NIS harps on commitment to building a better Nigeria

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E. Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has called on Nigerians to contribute their quota towards building a stronger, more united and prosperous nation.

Shaibu, in an Independence message, said the task of nation-building required the collective efforts of citizens and institutions, urging Nigerians to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s economy, human capital and national development.

Shaibu calls for collective responsibility

The NIS helmsman said Nigeria’s progress could not be achieved by government alone, stressing that citizens must also play their respective roles through responsible citizenship, hard work, patriotism and commitment to national development. Blueprint reports

He urged Nigerians to support and key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, describing it as a framework through which the administration has outlined its vision for a stronger, more productive and prosperous Nigeria.

Shaibu called on citizens to embrace the spirit of the agenda by contributing meaningfully to their communities and the wider society, noting that collective commitment remained essential to overcoming the challenges confronting the country.

According to him, when citizens and institutions discharge their responsibilities with dedication and patriotism, Nigeria will be better positioned to harness its vast human and material resources for sustainable development.

NIS prioritises sports development

Shaibu said the NIS would continue to contribute to national development through its mandate of producing and strengthening the capacity of sports professionals, particularly coaches who play a critical role in identifying, developing and nurturing athletic talent.

He said the Institute, under his leadership, was focused on improving the quality of coaching education, strengthening professional standards and equipping coaches with the knowledge and technical skills required to develop athletes capable of competing effectively at national and international levels.

The NIS boss noted that the development of sports should be viewed not only from the perspective of competition and medals but also as an avenue for youth development, employment, discipline, national integration and the promotion of Nigeria’s image globally.

He added that investing in competent coaches and strengthening professional standards remained crucial to building a sustainable sports development system capable of producing athletes who can compete at the highest level.

Institute reaffirms commitment to nation-building

As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, Shaibu reaffirmed the commitment of the NIS to supporting the country’s development through quality sports education, professional training and human-capital development.

He said the Institute would continue to align its programmes and activities with the broader aspirations of national development, particularly in preparing sports professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the growth of the sector.

He called on Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country’s future and to continue working collectively towards building a nation where its human and natural resources are effectively harnessed for the benefit of present and future generations.

According to him, the journey towards a better Nigeria remains a shared responsibility, requiring every citizen, institution and sector to contribute its quota.

The NIS Director-General congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary, expressing confidence that through unity, patriotism, professionalism and collective responsibility, the country could achieve its full potential.