President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered that all funds allocated to Nigeria’s sports sector be released immediately once the 2026 national budget is passed and assented to, signaling a major overhaul of sports funding.
The directive, issued on Friday, February 6, 2026, aims to end chronic delays that have hindered preparation, infrastructure development, and international competition participation.
Tinubu instructed the Ministries of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning and the Budget Office of the Federation to ensure that sports allocations are included in the budget and disbursed promptly once approved.
“Nigerian athletes deserve certainty, not excuses,” he said, emphasizing timely and predictable funding.
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Under the reforms, scattered allocations will be consolidated under the National Sports Commission to strengthen domestic programmes and improve global competitiveness.
Highlighting Nigeria’s 2025 achievements, Tinubu noted athletes won 373 medals across various disciplines, and said the new funding framework will ensure better planning and preparation for future competitions.
The directive is part of a broader strategy to use sports as a driver of job creation, tourism, investment, and international influence.