The National Sports Commission (NSC) has inaugurated four national sports federation boards in Abuja. The commission charged the new leaders to prioritise accountability, diligence and sports development.
The inauguration took place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. NSC chairman Shehu Dikko led the ceremony alongside Director-General Bukola Olopade, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) president Habu Gumel and other dignitaries.
Four federations welcome new leadership
The ceremony covered the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation, Nigeria Padel Federation and Nigeria Fencing Federation.
Each board will oversee the development of its respective sport. The commission also expects the new leadership to expand opportunities for athletes and strengthen domestic competitions.
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For Nigerian sports, the appointments present an opportunity to improve organisation and support wider participation. The federations also have room to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in international competitions.
Basketball and arm wrestling boards inaugurated
Dr Abdullahi Mustapha has assumed the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation. Rita Mosindi will serve as the federation’s secretary-general.
Meanwhile, Engr Samuel Olatunji Jackson will lead the Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation. Ms Dorathy Okpo Benard joins the board as secretary-general.
Both federations will need to focus on their respective development priorities. Their responsibilities include strengthening domestic structures and creating better opportunities for athletes.
Padel and fencing appoint new presidents
Rt. Hon. Jimi Benson will serve as president of the Nigeria Padel Federation. Israel Inwang has been appointed secretary-general.
At the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Mr Adeyinka Samuel will lead as president. Javan Bernard will serve as secretary-general.
The appointments complete the leadership changes across the four federations inaugurated at the Abuja ceremony.
NSC demands accountability and sports development
The National Sports Commission expects the new boards to harness the economic potential of their sports. It also wants them to align their activities with the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE) framework.
The commission emphasised integrity, teamwork and commitment as essential qualities for the new administrators. Their work will play a role in developing athletes, improving domestic competitions and expanding international participation.
The NSC congratulated all newly inaugurated board members. It also urged them to discharge their responsibilities diligently and contribute to the growth of Nigerian sports.
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