NIS to Launch South-South Zonal Office in Benin as Shaibu, Enabulele Unveil 2026 Sports Development Blueprint

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Hon. Philip Shaibu, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, to formally brief him on plans for the commencement of operations of the NIS South-South Zonal Office in Benin City, Edo State.

In a statement by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Hon. Enabulele welcomed Shaibu and praised his contributions to the transformation and growth of the Edo State Sports Commission. He particularly commended Shaibu for enhancing the visibility, structure, and public understanding of the NIS, making it a more respected and professional institution.

“I sincerely appreciate Hon. Philip Shaibu for choosing Edo State as the host of the South-South Zonal Office of the National Institute of Sports. This will significantly boost sports development, capacity building, and professionalism in the state and across the region,” Enabulele said. He assured that the Commission would collaborate closely with the NIS to ensure the facility fully supports all zonal activities.

During the meeting, Enabulele shared the Edo State Sports Commission’s 2026 calendar. The first quarter will focus on capacity-building programs for coaches, technical officials, and sports administrators to enhance professionalism. Edo State will also host the Niger Delta Sports Festival from February 20–27, 2026, organized by Dunamis Icon Limited and funded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), with a focus on under-19 athletes and grassroots talent development.

Looking ahead, Edo will host the Edo Racket Games in April, featuring all racket sports, followed by the Governor’s Cup in May to boost participation among private schools. Initiatives to promote gender equality in sports include a partnership with marathon organizers and a “Women in Sports” tournament in June. Preparations are also underway for the National Youth Games to identify talents for national representation.

The third quarter will spotlight combat sports with the “Battle of Champions” tournament from July to September, alongside the Edo State Sports Festival and continued National Youth Games participation. The fourth quarter will feature the Benin City Marathon, projected to become one of Nigeria’s largest, alongside the Intermediate Games in Lagos and a year-end review of activities to strengthen future planning.

Hon. Shaibu emphasized talent development and professionalism, noting the Federal Ministry of Sports’ directive to outlaw uncertified coaches. He highlighted the importance of continuous coach training and structured sports programs for children during school holidays. Shaibu also announced plans to train coaches and elite athletes, including non-literate participants, with NBTE approval for programs.

“Edo State will host more coaches and athletes than most states due to its status as the South-South Zonal Office. Full operations will begin in February,” Shaibu said. He added that the office will feature workstations for coaches and staff, with a state-level committee overseeing coordination.

Shaibu revealed that six NIS zonal offices have been created nationwide. Edo’s office is ready, while Ogun and Enugu are in advanced stages. Kaduna, Adamawa, and Plateau have been identified in the North, with Plateau set for activation next week. Kano and Kwara already have infrastructure for state-level offices. Staffing plans include 150 recruited personnel, with additional hires planned in the second and fourth quarters. Zonal office training programs will begin in the second quarter, with induction for administrative staff next week and postings by early February.

He outlined a three-week NIS crash course for degree holders in physical education and human kinetics, after which participants will be posted to zonal centers. Shaibu also revealed a 10-year NIS strategic plan, prioritizing zonal and state offices, certificate and diploma programs, and eventual transition into a university-level institution.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to collaboration, ensuring all facilities, structures, and coordination mechanisms are in place for the successful launch of the NIS South-South Zonal Office in Edo State.