As the National Sports Commission (NSC) continues to implement wide-ranging reforms aimed at repositioning Nigerian sports, basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche Mark, has welcomed the developments, expressing strong optimism about the future of sports in the country.

In a statement released in Abuja, Igoche Mark described the establishment of the NSC by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in November 2024 as a turning point in sports administration.

“The establishment of the National Sports Commission has marked a paradigm shift in Nigerian sports administration,” he said. “Under the leadership of Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olapade, the commission has embarked on a transformative journey to revitalise the nation’s sports sector, injecting much-needed vitality into the industry.”

A long-time advocate for basketball development in Nigeria, Igoche Mark praised the commission’s flagship programme, the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), describing it as a game-changer.

“The RHINSE programme is poised to transform sports into a major contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, ushering the country into a new era of sports prosperity,” he noted. “Plans to renovate major stadiums nationwide, alongside initiatives such as the Junior Athletes Initiative (JAI), are clear evidence of the commission’s commitment to building a strong and inclusive sports ecosystem that benefits athletes, administrators and fans.”

Highlighting the impact of the reforms, Igoche revealed that the sports sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP has risen to over one per cent—an unprecedented milestone.

“This achievement underscores the immense potential of Nigerian sports,” he said. “The ecosystem is responding positively to the reforms, with increased private investment and renewed attention to grassroots development, giving young athletes the opportunity to dream big and achieve greatness.”

However, the basketball promoter urged the NSC to pay special attention to basketball, calling for a swift resolution of the lingering crisis in the sport.

“It is imperative that the commission resolves the basketball situation without external interference,” Igoche stressed. “Local challenges require local solutions, and addressing these issues is key to unlocking the full potential of Nigerian basketball.”

Expressing confidence that Nigerian sports is on the brink of a major breakthrough, Igoche Mark pointed to the Super Eagles’ impressive showing at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the promise of the nation’s basketball teams.

“We are on the cusp of a sports revolution,” he said. “With sustained commitment and support, Nigerian sports can become a major force globally—driving economic growth, creating jobs and inspiring future generations.”

As the Super Eagles prepare for their Round of 16 clash at AFCON in Morocco, Igoche Mark called on Nigerians to unite behind the team.

“Let’s cheer the Super Eagles to a fourth AFCON title and begin the 2026 sports calendar year with a trophy,” he urged. “The time is now, the stage is set—let’s make Nigerian sports history.”

Igoche Mark’s remarks have been widely welcomed by sports stakeholders and enthusiasts, many of whom view the NSC’s reforms as a foundation for sustained growth. With renewed energy from administrators and private stakeholders alike, Nigerian sports appears poised for a brighter and more prosperous future.

As Igoche Mark aptly concluded: “The future is now, and it’s going to be amazing.”