The National Sports Commission (NSC) recently welcomed the Presidential Office of Digital Engagement & Strategy (PODES) on a working visit that underscores the alignment between both offices in realizing Mr. President’s vision for Nigerian sports, social development, digital engagement, and transformation. Led by Senior Special Assistants to the President, Otega Ogra (Digital/New Media) and Ishaq Ahmed Ningi (Digital Media & Emergency Management, OVP), the PODES team engaged in meaningful discussions with new NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko to explore synergies that will elevate sports and public engagement through the digital medium in Nigeria while also leveraging sports as a platform for youth development and economic growth and creating career pathways within sports, digital media, and technology
This visit to the NSC highlights an essential step in building a productive partnership between the two offices, aimed at supporting the President’s agenda for a digitally enabled, inclusive, and secure sports sector. Chairman Dikko acknowledged the personal commitment of the PODES team and emphasized the NSC’s shared dedication to advancing Nigeria’s potential through sports and digital innovation.
“Our discussions with PODES were centered around Mr. President’s vision for a transformative sports sector ,” Dikko remarked. “By combining PODES’ expertise in digital engagement with our sports development goals, we can create a sector that resonates with Nigerians, showcases our talent globally, and prioritizes safety across all levels.”
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Key areas discussed during the briefing session include Digital communications, Transformation and Engagement advisory to amplify Nigeria’s sports narrative, with PODES leading the charge in using government digital platforms to showcase Nigerian sports through the lens of President Bola Tinubu’s vision for sports, while connecting with a global audience, and inspiring pride in the nation’s achievements.
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and communications for sports and sporting facilities across Nigeria were discussed extensively. PODES’ emergency management unit in the Office of the VP will bring its experience to bear in developing plans for sports venues and events to ensure athlete and spectator safety, supporting Nigeria’s readiness to host national and international events in line with Chairman Dikko’s vision.
The visit laid a strong foundation for the PODES team to take an active role in steering digital communications for sports, aligning with the Tinubu-Shettina’s broader initiatives and policies for national development. Chairman Dikko expressed his gratitude to Otega and Ningi for their insights and commitment to the a whole-of-government approach to partnerships for development, noting that the collaborative efforts will create a vibrant, digitally empowered sports landscape that unites Nigerians and elevates the nation’s global standing.
