Kola Daniel identifies athletes’ welfare, quality leadership as key factors behind successes recorded in Nigerian sports

Athletes’ welfare and quality leadership have been identified as the key factors behind the remarkable achievements recorded in Nigeria’s sports sector since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu restored the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The Special Assistant on Media to the Director General of the NSC, Mr. Kola Daniel stated this Tuesday in Glasgow, Scotland, the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where Team Nigeria has already secured six gold and four silver medals.

According to Mr. Daniel, the leadership of the National Sports Commission, under its Chairman, Malam Shehu Dikko, and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade has prioritized athletes’ welfare through initiatives such as the instant cash reward, which ensures medal-winning athletes receive their financial rewards immediately after reaching the podium, and the training grants policy.
He noted that the leadership style of the NSC has inspired confidence among athletes, creating a winning mindset and reinforcing the belief that no goal is beyond their reach.
Mr. Daniel expressed optimism that the future of Nigerian sports is even brighter, stressing that the current reforms are laying a solid foundation for sustained success.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for redefining the nation’s sports sector through visionary leadership and support for the Commission’s programmes.
He said he is already looking forward to Nigeria’s Super Falcons also excelling at the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations, where they are gunning for a record-extending 11th African title



