From Abel Leonard, Lafia

In a crucial meeting with the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Club Owners Association, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, outlined a comprehensive vision to rejuvenate Nigerian football.

In a statement sent to The Sun News  Correspondent on Friday stated that the  session, attended by top league stakeholders, highlighted ambitious plans to elevate the NPFL into a pivotal force in Nigeria’s sports economy, youth development, and community welfare.

Reflecting on his ongoing relationship with club owners, Dikko reassured  his commitment to the league, describing the NPFL as “the critical lever” for advancing Nigerian sports. “We must make the league work. If the league works, everything works,” he asserted, stressing the importance of the NPFL as a foundation for sustainable sports growth.

Dikko shared his belief in the league’s broader economic potential, noting that “When the elite league flourishes, the sports economy gets a boost.” He emphasized that a successful NPFL could open financial opportunities across the sports sector, providing a benchmark for standards nationwide.

Addressing the country’s stadium shortage, which currently includes only one internationally compliant venue, Dikko announced plans to build six high-quality stadiums, one in each geopolitical zone. “This will reduce dependency on foreign venues and position Nigeria to host international events,” he explained, a move welcomed by the Club Owners Association as vital for competitiveness.

Youth development also featured prominently in the discussions. Dikko proposed collaboration with state governors to support programs aimed at nurturing young talent. “Relegation and winning titles is not everything,” he remarked, “It is about discovering and developing young players.” His vision includes establishing a robust pipeline for future Nigerian football stars.

Highlighting the league’s social impact, Dikko referenced his League Management Company (LMC) experience, noting that night matches had fostered local peace by reducing youth restiveness. “Relative peace” prevailed in communities during match times, he said, showcasing football as a tool for social change.

With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressing strong support for the league, Dikko affirmed that “The president is very interested in getting the league working.” This high-level backing, he added, should help attract investments to propel Nigerian football to global competitiveness.j