By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Arewa Youth Movement has reversed its stance on Shehu Dikko’s appointment as Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), now endorsing him as an ideal choice for the position.

In a statement signed by its National President, Amb. Muhammed Saad Aboki, the group announced their support for Dikko, citing his leadership credentials and extensive experience in Nigerian sports administration.

Dikko, a widely respected football administrator, previously served as Chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), where he managed the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and oversaw significant advancements.

According to Aboki, under Dikko’s tenure, the NPFL witnessed strengthened league operations, enhanced competitiveness, and the promotion of sportsmanship.

He stated that Dikko’s achievements at the LMC include forging strategic partnerships with international football organizations that raised the NPFL’s profile and attracted foreign investment. His financial reforms brought transparency and accountability to the league’s management.

Additionally, Dikko has passed stringent integrity tests as a member of FIFA’s Football Stakeholders Committee and has cleared government screenings, underscoring his commitment to transparency.

Recognizing his experience and qualifications, the Arewa Youth Movement commended President Bola Tinubu for selecting a ‘worthy son of Arewa” to lead the NSC.

They described Dikko’s appointment as a well-suited match for the role, noting his expertise in football management, marketing, and international match coordination.

The group urged other parties to cease spreading allegations of corruption against Dikko, calling the claims baseless and counterproductive to the progress of Nigerian sports.

They emphasized the need for Nigerians to rally behind Dikko’s vision for sports development, expressing confidence in his ability to replicate his success in football across all sports and propel Nigeria to new heights on the global stage.

The statement read, “We commend President Tinubu for selecting a worthy son of Arewa to lead the NSC, this appointment is more like fixing a square peg in a square hole, Mr. Dikko’s vast experience in sports administration, particularly in football management, marketing, and international match commissioning, makes him the best man for the job. Once again, thank you Mr President, we have never doubted your vision and forsight for Nigeria.

“We urge other groups and individuals to cease spreading false information about Mr. Dikko’s alleged corruption cases. These baseless allegations only serve to undermine the progress of Nigerian sports.

“Instead, we should rally behind Mr. Dikko and support his vision for Nigerian sports as we anticipate that he will bring the midas touch he has with Nigerian football into sports in general. His leadership will undoubtedly propel our nation to greater heights and allow us to reach our full potentials in the sporting world.”