By Aderonke Ojo
The Director General/CEO of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has reiterated the institute’s commitment to revitalizing sports development in Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.
Shaibu made this known while receiving a delegation from Alliance Hospital, led by its Medical Director, Dr. Christopher Otabor, during a courtesy visit to the NIS in Abuja.
Speaking, Shaibu expressed confidence in the competence and reliability of Alliance Hospital, drawing from his long-standing relationship with the institution.
“I have known Alliance Hospital for a long time and I can attest to their efficiency and professionalism. I have made several referrals there, and the results have always been commendable,” he said.
He recalled notable success stories, including life-saving medical interventions facilitated by the hospital, underscoring the importance of quality healthcare in sports development.
The NIS boss noted that the institute is undergoing a major transformation aimed at restoring standard medical and professional practices in Nigerian sports.
He lamented the decline in mandatory medical screening for athletes over the years, which has contributed to avoidable injuries and career setbacks.
“We are bringing back global best practices where athletes must undergo proper medical evaluation before participation. This is key to safeguarding their health and enhancing performance,” he stated.
The immediate past deputy governor of Edo state further disclosed plans to upgrade the institute’s medical facilities, including the construction of a new medical complex equipped with modern diagnostic tools, as well as the establishment of satellite medical units across the six geopolitical zones.
According to him, the goal is to build a sustainable system that will function efficiently beyond government funding, driven by credible partnerships with the private sector. “We want NIS to become an institution that works for itself. With partners like Alliance Hospital, we can create a system that is durable, efficient, and beneficial to Nigerian athletes,” he added.
Earlier, the Medical Director of Alliance Hospital, Dr. Christopher Otabor, congratulated Shaibu on his appointment, describing it as a “square peg in a square hole,” considering his track record in sports administration and his role in the rise of Bendel Insurance Football Club.
He emphasized the strong link between sports and medicine, noting that effective collaboration between both sectors is critical to the growth of sports in Nigeria.
“We are here to explore opportunities for partnership between the private sector and NIS. Alliance Hospital has the capacity, including orthopedic specialists and modern diagnostic equipment, to support the treatment and management of athletes’ health,” he said.
Dr. Otabor also highlighted the need to fully harness the potential of the NIS, particularly in areas such as athlete diagnosis, medical testing, and research, stressing that with the right investment, the institute could become a leading hub in sports medicine.
The visit marks a step toward strengthening collaboration between the NIS and private healthcare providers in advancing sports medicine and athlete welfare in Nigeria.
