February 9, 2026 — President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive ensuring that all funds allocated to the sports sector be released immediately once the national budget is passed.
The President’s order aims to eliminate the chronic delays in funding that have historically hindered the preparation and performance of Nigerian athletes on the global stage. Speaking on the strategic importance of sports for national unity and economic potential, Tinubu emphasized that “bureaucratic bottlenecks” should no longer stand in the way of sporting excellence.
Key Highlights of the Directive:
Zero Delay: Funds must be accessible as soon as the Appropriation Bill is signed into law.
Athletic Welfare: The move is designed to prioritize the training, allowances, and logistics of national teams.
Economic Vision: The administration views sports not just as recreation, but as a viable industry capable of job creation for Nigeria’s youth.
A New Era for Nigerian Sports?
For years, sports administrators and athletes have lamented the “late release of funds,” often receiving financial support only days before major competitions like the Olympics or the African Games. By mandating an immediate disbursement pipeline, the Presidency is looking to foster a more professional and predictable environment for the Ministry of Sports Development.
“When the budget is passed, the funds must be there. We must support our youth to compete and win,” the President stated, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the sector.
