The Federal Government is considering the integration of National Institute for Sports (NIS) training programmes into its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) framework as part of efforts to equip young Nigerians with practical skills and create employment opportunities through sports.
The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, proposed the initiative during a meeting with the Director-General of the NIS, Philip Shaibu, who visited the Federal Ministry of Education to seek stronger institutional collaboration on sports development and education.
Alausa also suggested extending the duration of NIS training programmes to six months to give participants more time to acquire practical knowledge and professional skills.
He said sports should become an integral part of Nigeria’s education system, particularly as the Federal Government reviews the curriculum and strengthens the foundation of education at the primary school level.
The minister noted that sports offered opportunities beyond recreation and competition, particularly in employment generation, skills development and the creation of professional careers for young Nigerians.
He said the country must position itself to benefit from the growing demand for skilled manpower, stressing that sports education deserved greater attention in ongoing educational reforms.
Alausa commended Shaibu for his leadership at the NIS, describing the progress recorded under his administration within its first year as evidence of commitment to public service.
“As you were talking, I felt happy. Service, leadership, passion and commitment; this is what the DG has exhibited in his few months in office,” the minister said.
He added that the NIS director’s vision aligned with the Ministry’s educational objectives and deserved institutional support.
Earlier, Shaibu said his visit was aimed at strengthening cooperation between the institute and the Ministry to reposition sports education, review existing training structures and expand opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire relevant skills.
He stressed the importance of stronger institutional partnerships in advancing sports development and supporting the Federal Government’s education reforms.
The proposed integration of NIS programmes into the TVET framework is expected to provide a structured pathway for developing skilled manpower and widening career opportunities across Nigeria’s sports industry.
