By Victor Okoye
Abuja, March 26, 2026 (NAN) — The National Sports Commission (NSC) has pledged stronger collaboration with Nigeria’s bodybuilding and fitness federation to enhance talent development nationwide.
NSC Chairman, Malam Shehu Dikko, made this known on Thursday in Abuja, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of Nigeria (ABBFN), led by its President, Mr. Soye Elekima.
Dikko said the partnership would improve talent identification, training facilities, and competition standards across all levels of the sport.
He emphasized that the NSC would support national teams, organise championship workshops, and promote school-level fitness programmes for sustainable athlete development.
“We are committed to building a structured pathway from grassroots to elite levels, ensuring Nigerian athletes compete favourably on the global stage,” he said.
The NSC Chairman also stated that Mr. Soye Elekima came at the right time for the regulation of gyms in Nigeria to reduce sudden deaths and mishaps, and to ensure proper certification of instructors across the nation.
He further added that the NSC will collaborate with the federation, endorse, and support all related programs, including the organization of the ShapeUp Nigeria 30×30 Fitness Challenge.
This initiative aims to reduce non-communicable diseases in Nigeria and promote healthier, more productive employees.
Key elements of the collaboration include logistical support and prize funding for competitions to maintain high standards in national bodybuilding championships.
The partnership also covers elite and junior training workshops, targeting athletes between ages six and 21, alongside capacity-building programmes for coaches nationwide.
It further focuses on developing male and female athletes for regional and international competitions, strengthening Nigeria’s presence in global fitness events.
NAN also reports that a major highlight of the meeting was the induction of Dikko into the World Fitness Sheriffs Department as a Grand Commander.
The World Fitness Sheriffs Department declared the global operation “Keep Fit,” instructing all fitness organizations and enthusiasts worldwide to observe “Keep Fit” every last Saturday of each month to promote regular physical activity and health awareness.
“This honour reflects our collective efforts in promoting fitness as a tool for national development, youth engagement, and public health,” Dikko said.
Earlier, Elekima, President of ABBFN, highlighted plans to host the IFBB Fitness and Bodybuilding League and other affiliated competitions in Nigeria.
He, who also serves as Vice President of the African Federation of Fitness and Bodybuilding (AFBB), said Nigeria was well-positioned to host major international events.
“We are seeking NSC’s collaboration to host IFBB events, including regional classics and university championships, to showcase Nigeria’s immense talent and organisational capacity,” he said.
He added that IFBB’s partnership with the International Students World Games would open more global opportunities for Nigerian athletes.
Elekima also mentioned that the events will include the participation of Mr. ALGON, representing the All Local Government Bodybuilding and Fitness Champions, as well as the Gym League, which aims to promote local government-level competitions and talent discovery across Nigeria.
Furthermore, Elekima expressed gratitude and said that the NSC Chairman, on behalf of the commission, should thank His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, who has been instrumental in advancing the federation’s efforts by sponsoring the National Fitness Day bill in the 9th Assembly. The Chairman responded warmly, saying, “He is my friend.”
“Nigeria has produced world-class athletes, and hosting these events will boost economic growth, create jobs, and attract global investment into the fitness industry,” Elekima added.
Elekima also expressed confidence that NSC’s support would position Nigeria as a leading bodybuilding and fitness hub in Africa and beyond.(NAN)
