The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has commended the Nigerian Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF) for their dedication and determination in representing the country and winning laurels despite numerous challenges.
Dikko made this remark during a recent courtesy visit by the NDSF Board members to his office.
The Chairman emphasized that sports should be inclusive for all, assuring the Federation that the NSC is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind. He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to promoting equal opportunities in sports and reaffirmed that the NSC will align with this vision.
“We are all part of the system, and we want to see sports being played at all levels of society by anyone who wishes to participate, whether for recreation or professionally,” he stated.
Dikko further assured the NDSF of the NSC’s collaboration in expanding opportunities for deaf athletes, creating platforms for them to thrive, and ensuring that sports become a viable means of livelihood.
“We will work together to develop deaf sports, create more opportunities, and provide platforms that will enable your members to compete professionally and earn a living through sports,” he assured.
The Chairman congratulated the Board on its efforts in promoting Nigeria through various international competitions and pledged the NSC’s full support in organizing both national and major international events scheduled for later in the year.
Earlier, the President of the NDSF, Alhaji Dagbo Suleiman Saka, expressed gratitude to the Chairman for his support and inclusivity towards the federation. He noted that the federation had been awarded the hosting rights for the 13th West African Deaf Football Championship and the 4th National Deaf Games, both slated for later in the year. He solicited the support of the NSC to ensure the successful hosting of these events.
While pledging the federation’s loyalty and cooperation, Alhaji Saka also appealed for financial assistance to settle outstanding debts owed to international sports bodies, particularly concerning the upcoming Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan. He stressed the need to avoid sanctions that could prevent Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming events.
During the visit, the federation presented the trophy won at the 13th West African Deaf Football Championship, held in Lagos in October 2024, as a symbol of their success and dedication to Nigerian sports.
This statement was issued and signed by Kehinde Ajayi (Mrs.), Director of Information and PR, National Sports Commission (NSC), on February 8, 2025.
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