By Gabriel Ameh
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Correspondence Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has conferred an Award of Excellence in Sports Development on the Director-General of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Comrade Phillip Shaibu, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports development and capacity building in Nigeria.
The award was presented at a brief but colourful ceremony in Abuja by the Chairman of the FCT Correspondence Chapel, Comrade Felix Ojo, on behalf of members of the chapel.
Presenting the award, Comrade Ojo described Comrade Shuaibu as a transformational leader whose tenure at the National Institute of Sports has repositioned the institute as a critical pillar for sports education, professionalism and talent development in Nigeria.
He noted that the leadership of the NIS under Comrade Shaibu has continued to strengthen institutional relevance, promote professionalism in sports administration, and provide opportunities for young Nigerians to build careers within the sports ecosystem.
“This award is our way of appreciating your visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and sustained efforts at ensuring that sports development in Nigeria is driven by knowledge, training and global best practices,” Ojo said.
“Comrade Phillip Shaibu, today we celebrate not just a public office holder, but a leader who understands the power of sports as a tool for national development. Under your leadership, the National Institute of Sports has continued to serve as a beacon of professionalism, innovation and capacity building.
The NUJ FCT Correspondence Chapel closely follows national institutions and individuals who are making real impact, and your commitment to strengthening sports education, training and administration stands out clearly.
On behalf of the entire chapel, it is my honour to present this Award of Excellence in Sports Development to you, as a mark of our appreciation and encouragement to do even more for Nigerian sports.”
In his response, Comrade Phillip Shaibu expressed deep appreciation to the NUJ FCT Correspondence Chapel for the honour, describing it as a motivation to do more for Nigerian sports.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled by this recognition from the FCT Correspondence Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. This award is not just for me, but for the entire management and staff of the National Institute of Sports who work tirelessly to ensure that sports development in Nigeria is anchored on knowledge, professionalism and integrity.”
“The media plays a crucial role in shaping national consciousness, and I sincerely appreciate the partnership, support and constructive engagement of journalists in promoting sports development and national unity.”
“I assure you that the National Institute of Sports remains committed to producing competent professionals who will drive Nigeria’s sports sector to greater heights.”
During the event, the chapel also presented a Certificate of Commendation to Comrade Ben Ogbemudia, Media Head to the Director-General of the National Institute of Sports, in recognition of his professionalism, media engagement, and effective communication in projecting the activities of the institute.
The chapel praised Comrade Ogbemudia for fostering a healthy working relationship between the NIS and the media, as well as for promoting transparency and accessibility.
In a vote of thanks delivered by Comrade Joy Idam, a member of the NUJ FCT Correspondence Chapel, she appreciated the Director-General for his openness and hospitality towards journalists.
She also used the opportunity to formally request six scholarship slots at the National Institute of Sports for journalists under the FCT Correspondence Chapel, to enhance their knowledge and capacity in sports reporting and administration
In a swift and commendable response, Comrade Phillip Shaibu graciously approved the request, directing the chapel to submit a formal letter to the management of the institute to facilitate the process.
The gesture was widely applauded by members of the chapel, who described it as a practical demonstration of the DG’s commitment to media development and sports education
The event further strengthened the relationship between the National Institute of Sports and the media, reinforcing the shared commitment to national development through sports, education and informed journalism.
