The newly appointed director general of the Nigeria Institute of Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has reaffirmed the institute’s vision to train world-class sportsmen and women.

Mr Shaibu made this pledge on resumption of duty at the NIS headquarters, marking the beginning of his leadership at the institution.

Mr Shaibu, in a statement on Friday by his media assistant, Ben Ogbemudia, met with management and staff for familiarisation.

The former deputy governor of Edo was warmly received by top management officials upon his arrival at the institute.

He later joined the directors in the conference room, where he received handover notes from his predecessor, Morolayo Fasakin.

In his address, Mr Shaibu expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the trust and confidence reposed in him.

He assured that he would serve with a deep sense of duty, responsibility and dedication, in line with the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The NIS DG pledged to lead by example and strengthen partnerships. He sought the full cooperation of staff to achieve the institute’s proactive goals.

In a separate meeting in Abuja, Mr Shaibu asked staff for their support in delivering on the president’s sports development vision.

“Our core focus is sports. The president envisions a Nigeria where sports regain prominence in Africa and beyond.

“It is our duty to train athletes and coaches who will represent Nigeria as world-class professionals,” he stated.

Mr Shaibu emphasised the need for transformation, saying paramedical personnel are in short supply globally and must be produced locally.

“I was sent here by the president, and I must deliver. We must wake up and fulfil our responsibilities.

“We will train coaches, athletes and paramedics for international standards,” he said, emphasising teamwork and commitment to the NIS mandate.

(NAN)