NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko charges NIS on academic excellence

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko has charged the National Institute For Sports ( NIS), Lagos to.maitain it’s standard of excellence inorder to continue to produce highly knowledgeable coaches and sports administrators for the country

He gave the advise Thursday during the 9th convocation ceremony/ 50th anniversary celebration of the Institute.

According to Dikko who represented the Visitor of the Institute, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the occasion, the NIS in it’s 50 years of existence has produced some of the best athletes and coaches for the country, charging the management to continue to raise the bar in research, teaching and producing first class coaches for Nigeria,

Dikko while urging the graduates to be good ambassadors of the school, promised that the NSC will continue to support NIS to become one of the best Institute of Sports in the continent.

Earlier in his welcome address, Directior General of NIS, Prof. Olawale Akanbi Moronkola explained that his tenure has not only emphasized academic excellence but has made the practice of holding convocation ceremonies regularly as is done in other Institutions of higher learning.

” My tenure has not only emphasized academic excellence but has made the practice of convocation ceremonies a hallmark of this Institution.

” In times past, we might have seen such events held sporadically amidst various challenges, however under my stewardship, it was a resolution made and one designed to be delivered and all Glory to God for the opportunity and the realization of these goals.

“Today, we proudly convene, celebrating the achievements of our graduates with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. This continuity fosters not just a academic progress but a sense of community and belonging among our students, faculty and alumni.

Prof. Moronkola while describing convocation as a time of reflection; a moment to recognize the collective achievements, challenges overcome and lessons learned throughout life upto the period of being awarded, noted that the celebration holds a special significance as it reflects the commitment and hard work put forward by many stakeholders to make the ceremony an eventful one.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Institution, with a promise not to disappoint him

” I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. President represented here by the Chairman of National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko for his unwavering support, guidance and corporation which have been invaluable for our success

“The National Sports Commission plays a crucial role in promoting and institutionalizing sports in Nigeria and their collaboration with our institution has brought about remarkable achievements in our programmes.

” Our profound gratitude also goes to the President for increasing budgetary allocation to all sports MDA’s of which we’re part of and the creating of the Sports Commission which Nigerians received with applause and expectation in the sports landscape”, he said.

The Director General also charged the graduating students to take their status as alumni serious as it’s incumbent on them to make themselves shinning examples as it will fortify the reputation of the institution and inspire those who come after them.

A total of 735 students graduated in such courses as Basic Certificate in Fitness and Conditioning, Professional Certificate in Fitness and Conditioning , National Diploma in Sports Management Studies, Professional Certificate in Coaching and Sports Psychology, Diploma in Stadium Management, Basic Coaching, Professional Certificate in Management Studies, Advance Certificate in Coaching and Diploma Coaching Certificate.
Others are, Higher Diploma in Coaching, Professional Certificate in Coaching and Sports Psychology and Diploma of Coaching and Training.
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Highlight of the convocation was the institution’s fellowship award to some eminent Nigerians who includes; Managing Director /CEO of Peace Airline, Allen Onyema, President of Remo Stars FC, Hon. Kunle Soname, President General of Nigeria Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, seven time Paralympian, Lucy Ejike, ace broadcaster, Danladi Bako and the pioneer Principal of NIS, Dr. Awoture Eleyae who was given a Post Humous award.

Certificate of recognition was also given to Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniji and media icon, Modele Sharafa- Yusuf.