THE Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Chief (Hon.) Bukola Olopade, has dismissed reports alleging infighting and power struggles within the commission, describing them as malicious fabrications designed to mislead the public.
News Point Nigeria Sport reports that speaking to journalists over the weekend during the ongoing 9th National Youth Games at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium in Asaba, Olopade said the stories making the rounds were nothing but “half-truths, innuendoes, propaganda and outright falsehood” being pushed by “quack and contemptible journalists.”
“There was never a time we fought over money, contracts, or positions. My relationship with the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, is rock-solid and built on sincerity.
“I know my role as Director General, and I fully respect his leadership as Chairman. The so-called rift is shameful, wicked, and totally false,” Olopade declared.
Addressing speculations that Lagos State had already secured hosting rights for the 2026 National Youth Games, Olopade clarified that no such decision had been taken.
“The official handover of the championship flag to the next host state will be done at the closing ceremony here in Asaba. Due process will determine the next host, not speculation,” he stated.
This clarification comes as excitement builds toward the end of the Asaba Games, which has drawn thousands of young athletes from across the country.
Beyond clearing the air on alleged disputes, Olopade announced fresh policy initiatives by the NSC, including the creation of a platform to ensure statutory representation of retired female athletes in all sports federations.
According to him, the move will guarantee that female athletes who contributed to national sports development are recognised, represented, and empowered in leadership structures.
Olopade further reassured stakeholders that the NSC leadership is focused on reforms, innovation, and unity rather than distractions.
He said the Commission, under his leadership and that of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, was working harmoniously with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and all other federations.
“Malam Shehu Dikko and I have our eyes on the board. We are innovating, building a production-oriented system, and even bidding for Nigeria to host the Commonwealth Games. We are a family, united with the NFF and all federations, working as one team,” he affirmed.
The clarification follows recent unverified reports suggesting a deep rift in the NSC leadership over funding, contracts, and hosting rights.
The commission, however, insists that its priority remains delivering results, inclusivity, and international visibility for Nigerian sports.
The 9th National Youth Games, currently ongoing in Asaba, serves as a vital platform for discovering and nurturing young sporting talents across the country.