NSC Settles Team Allowance, Bonuses as Athletes Shine in Tokyo

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has swiftly intervened to stabilize Team Nigeria’s camp at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, ensuring that administrative challenges do not overshadow the athletes’ historic performances on the global stage.

Under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Commission moved decisively to clear all outstanding allowances and bonuses, ending a period of uncertainty that had unsettled the camp.

During a meeting in Tokyo on Tuesday, Olopade reaffirmed the Federal Government’s renewed focus on athlete welfare, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration had given the NSC a clear mandate to reform sports administration and protect the interests of Nigerian athletes.

“I recognise that there have been challenges in the past leading to misunderstandings. This is precisely why Mr. President has revamped sports administration in the country with the establishment of the NSC. Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko is dedicated to ensuring that all our athletes receive the utmost care,” Olopade said.

The DG emphasised that beyond financial commitments, Nigerian athletes must also project the country’s image with pride and discipline.

“I want to encourage you all to remember that you are the mirror through which the world sees our country. Your conduct should always reflect patriotism, even in the face of challenges. We have no other country but Nigeria, and I am proud to say we are the best people in the world despite our challenges. You are all ambassadors of our nation, and you must carry yourselves as such,” Olopade told the athletes.