By Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reiterated the Commission’s commitment to strengthening grassroots sports through regular internal competitions under the Renewed Hope Initiative for the Nigerian Sports Economy (RHINSE).
Dikko made the pledge on Thursday while declaring open the 6th edition of the One Service One Medal (OSOM) Games at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, he highlighted the critical role of the OSOM Games in fostering unity and discipline among Nigeria’s security agencies, while also serving as a breeding ground for elite athletes.
“We recognise the role the security agencies have played in our rich sporting history by producing some of the country’s finest athletes,” Dikko stated.
“Under the RHINSE initiative, we are dedicated to ensuring regular competitions that will help discover new talents and keep our athletes actively engaged.”
Dikko emphasized that the Games go beyond medals, describing the event as a cornerstone in reforming Nigeria’s sports sector from one of consumption to production.
He also gave assurances that plans were underway to revamp national sports infrastructure, including a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Abuja National Stadium pitch, affirming:
“We believe infrastructural development and athlete growth go hand in hand.”
The OSOM Games, which run from April 24 to 30, 2025, will feature 12 military and paramilitary agencies, including the Army, Police, Navy, Air Force, Customs, Immigration, Fire Service, NSCDC, DSS, FRSC, EFCC, ICPC, and the NIA.
As the Games unfold, Dikko expressed optimism that the next generation of Nigerian sports stars will emerge from these competitions.
