By Ado Salisu
The Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), in partnership with the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), has launched a three-day capacity-building programme for Physical and Health Education (PHE) teachers in Kano State as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots sports development across the country.
Sponsored by Olympic Solidarity, the training follows similar successful editions held in Ogun and Plateau states.
More than 100 PHE teachers from across Kano State are participating in the programme taking place at Government Girls College Dala, where they are being equipped with modern skills in Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP), sports psychology, coaching, sports science, talent identification, and athlete development.
The OVEP framework, developed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), promotes the core Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect through classroom and sports instruction.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, NSSF President, Olabisi Joseph, described the programme as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s sporting future.
“Everything starts from school. If we want Nigeria to produce world-class athletes, we must start with world-class teachers,” she said.
She added that the programme is aimed at empowering teachers to nurture young talents, build character, and develop engaging sports strategies capable of inspiring students and promoting a culture of excellence.
Joseph also appreciated the NOC, led by Habu Gumel, for its collaboration, as well as the Kano State Government and people of the state for supporting the hosting of the programme.
IOC-certified expert, Abiodun Morofolu, is serving as the lead resource person, while the NOC OVEP Programme Coordinator, Kemi Obidahunsi, urged participants to apply the knowledge gained and continually update their skills for improved impact on students.
Other resource persons at the seminar include Musa Garba Yakasai of Bayero University Kano, who also serves as Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA).
Some participants who spoke at the event expressed appreciation to the organisers and sponsors for their commitment to grassroots sports development.
They also pledged to replicate the knowledge acquired in their respective schools to help achieve the objectives of the programme.
The Kano seminar is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at transforming school sports development in Nigeria, with similar training programmes scheduled to hold in Bayelsa and Lagos states later this month.
