National Sports Commission launches diaspora athlete initiative to strengthen Nigeria’s global sporting performance and talent development pipeline.
National Sports Commission has launched a new initiative to strengthen Nigeria’s global sporting presence by integrating diaspora athletes into its national development system.
Led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, the Commission says it is building a structured pipeline to identify, develop and elevate talent from grassroots to elite international levels.
Diaspora Programme Expands Talent Pool
At the centre of the reform is the Invited Diaspora Athletes (IDA) programme, which targets Nigerian-born athletes living abroad and offers them a pathway into national teams.
The Commission plans to host about 200 athletes in the United Kingdom this May for open trials, where selectors will assess talent for future competitions.
The move aims to harness global Nigerian talent and strengthen the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.
Intermediate Games to Bridge Development Gap
Top performers from the trials will qualify for the newly introduced Nigerian Intermediate Games, designed to close the gap between youth and senior-level competition.
The programme focuses on athletes aged 17 to 19, providing a structured transition phase that prepares them for elite performance.
Officials say the competition will play a critical role in reducing talent loss during the transition from junior to senior levels.
Long-Term Strategy for Sporting Excellence
Olopade said the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to secure Nigeria’s sporting future through a well-defined development pathway.
“We are creating a structured pathway to excellence, from grassroots identification to diaspora inclusion and bridging development gaps through intermediate competitions,” he said.
“Our goal is to ensure no talent is lost.”
Building on Existing Youth Development Success
The Commission noted that the new initiative builds on the success of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) programme, which has already produced emerging talents progressing toward international competition.
With the expanded framework, the NSC aims to create a sustainable system that connects local and diaspora athletes, ensuring equal opportunities to reach elite levels.
Driving Nigeria’s Global Sporting Ambitions
The Commission says the reforms will position Nigeria as a stronger force in global sports by widening its talent base and improving athlete development structures.
By aligning grassroots development with international exposure, officials believe Nigeria can achieve consistent success across multiple sporting disciplines.
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