Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
Enugu, Nigeria – November 7, 2025: The Federal Government has announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art National Institute for Sports (NIS) South East Zonal Headquarters in Enugu State — a move that underscores the state’s growing reputation as a hub for sports excellence, security, and infrastructural development.
The disclosure was made on Friday by the Director General of the institute, Comrade Philip Shaibu, during a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Government House. Shaibu, who is also a former Deputy Governor of Edo State, said the choice of Enugu was driven by the visible transformation under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
According to him, the state’s peace, hospitality, and modern infrastructure make it an ideal location for a regional sports hub that will serve the five South East states — Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, and Enugu.
“By designating Enugu as the proposed home of our South East Zonal Office, we are acknowledging not only the state’s strategic location and outstanding infrastructure but also Your Excellency’s visible commitment to youth and sports development,” Shaibu stated.
He added that the new zonal office would spearhead the institute’s Athletes and Coaches Development Programmes, focusing on talent discovery, capacity building, and grassroots sports promotion — all in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at decentralising sports development nationwide.
Shaibu also commended the Mbah administration’s ongoing efforts to revitalise the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Awgu Games Village, and other sporting facilities, noting that Enugu’s investor-friendly environment makes it ideal for long-term growth.
“We are not merely planning an office; we are laying the foundation for a sporting revolution that will raise future champions who will bring glory to Nigeria. This partnership will stimulate local employment, expand infrastructure, and open global opportunities for young talents across the South East,” he said.
In his response, Governor Peter Mbah expressed deep appreciation to the Federal Government and President Tinubu for their confidence in Enugu. He described the move as a strategic and well-deserved recognition of the state’s contribution to sports and youth development.
“You have made the right choice by coming to Enugu. We are very rich in sports history — this is the city of sporting legends where champions were born, trained, and celebrated. Sports is not just recreation; it drives social and economic growth, and we take it seriously,” Mbah stated.
The Governor assured the NIS delegation of his administration’s full support, including the provision of office space, logistics, and other institutional assistance to ensure a smooth take-off of the zonal headquarters.
He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and human capital development, pledging to continue creating opportunities for young people to thrive in sports, innovation, and enterprise.
“We are intentional about governance. For us, this is not about tokenism but genuine service to our people. We will keep building an enabling environment for youth empowerment and sustainable growth,” the Governor added.
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