FIFA’s Gianni Infantino Backs Shehu Dikko’s Leadership As Nigeria’s New Sports Commission Chair

Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, has publicly supported Malam Shehu Dikko’s recent appointment as Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Sports247 reports.

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Gianni Infantino expressed confidence in Dikko’s ability to bring impactful leadership to Nigeria’s sports sector, citing his “knowledge, experience, passion, and personal qualities” as ideal for driving progress. Infantino, in a message sent on October 31, extended his best wishes for Dikko’s success, highlighting the broad support and optimism that has greeted Dikko’s appointment.

The appointment of Dikko comes amid a structural revamp of Nigeria’s sports administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who recently reestablished the NSC to replace the Federal Ministry of Sports Development.

This shift is intended to strengthen Nigeria’s sports infrastructure, focusing on greater youth engagement, economic growth, and the elevation of Nigeria’s international sports profile.

Observers, including members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), believe Tinubu’s decision is a proactive move toward restoring Nigeria’s standing in the global sports arena.

Dikko’s career has been marked by significant contributions to football, both domestically and internationally. He served as Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL),

Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and currently represents Nigeria on the FIFA Football Stakeholders Committee. His influence has extended to other international roles, including the FIFA-IFAB Experts Panel, where he contributed to policy reforms in global football.

Ibrahim Musa Gusau, President of the NFF, also congratulated Dikko, praising his “knowledge, skill, experience, steadfastness, and diligence” and adding that Dikko is “a man full of meaningful and positive ideas” for Nigeria’s sports. The NFF expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Dikko to elevate Nigerian sports, especially football, to new heights.

With strong support from both FIFA and Nigeria’s sports community, Dikko is poised to lead initiatives that will enhance Nigeria’s sports sector, empower athletes, and foster national pride through sports.

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