NSC to hold UK trials for Nigerian diaspora athletes
Bukola Olopade of the National Sports Commission has announced a new initiative targeting Nigerian-born athletes living abroad. The commission plans to hold open trials in the United Kingdom to identify and develop talent for national teams. The Invited Diaspora Athletes programme aims to integrate these athletes into Nigeria’s sporting structure, with standout performers considered for the newly created Nigerian Intermediate Games. The reforms are part of a broader strategy to ensure no talent is overlooked at any level.
Match highlights
- The National Sports Commission will organize open trials in the UK for 200 Nigerian athletes based abroad in May.
- The Invited Diaspora Athletes programme is designed to create clearer pathways for diaspora athletes to join national teams.
- Outstanding trialists may participate in the Nigerian Intermediate Games, which bridge the gap between youth and elite competitions.
- Bukola Olopade emphasized that the reforms are part of a long-term plan to reposition Nigerian sport and ensure sustainable talent development.
- The commission says these efforts build on the success of the Invited Junior Athletes programme and aim to improve Nigeria’s performance across all sporting disciplines.
