The Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E. Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has paid an official visit to the Federal Ministry of Education to discuss ways of strengthening collaboration on sports development and integrating sports more firmly into Nigeria’s education system.

During the meeting with the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, discussions centred on repositioning sports education, reviewing existing training structures and creating more opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire relevant skills through sports.

The visit also highlighted the importance of stronger institutional partnerships in supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing educational reforms.

Commending Shaibu’s leadership and commitment, Alausa expressed satisfaction with the vision presented by the NIS chief executive, noting that the progress recorded within his first year in office reflected a strong sense of service and dedication.

“As you were talking, I felt happy. Service, leadership, passion and commitment; this is what the DG has exhibited in his few months in office,” the Minister stated.

He added that the achievements recorded under Shaibu’s leadership deserved the support of the Ministry.

Alausa further explained that the Federal Government had returned to the foundation of the education system, particularly at the primary school level, to review the curriculum and drive reforms being championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He stressed that sports must become an integral part of Nigeria’s education system, adding that the country must not be left out of the manpower revolution.

Addressing the challenge of unemployment, the Minister noted that sports has significant potential to generate employment, develop practical skills and create career opportunities for young Nigerians. He emphasised the need for relevant stakeholders to work together to harness this potential and give sports education the attention it deserves.

As a practical step towards achieving this objective, Alausa proposed the integration of NIS training programmes into the Federal Government’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) framework. He also suggested extending the duration of the programmes to six months.

The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to support the NIS, noting that Shaibu’s vision aligns with its mandate and broader educational objectives.

The proposed partnership is expected to provide a pathway for strengthening sports education, developing skilled manpower and expanding employment opportunities within Nigeria’s sports sector.