In yet another major recognition of Enugu State’s fast-rising profile as a centre of excellence in governance, infrastructure, and youth development, the Federal Government has designated the state as the South East Zonal Headquarters of the National Institute for Sports (NIS).

The announcement was made on Friday by the Director General of the Institute, Comrade Philip Shaibu, during a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah at the Government House, Enugu. Shaibu, a former Deputy Governor of Edo State, said the choice of Enugu was informed by the state’s remarkable transformation under Governor Mbah’s administration, noting that its modern infrastructure, peaceful environment, and growing sports investments made it the natural choice.

“By designating Enugu as the proposed home of our South East Zonal Office, we are acknowledging not only the state’s strategic location and outstanding infrastructure but also Your Excellency’s visible commitment to youth and sports development,” Shaibu stated.

According to him, the new zonal headquarters will serve as a regional hub for the Institute’s Athletes and Coaches Development Programmes, which will focus on talent discovery, capacity building, and grassroots sports excellence across the five South East states — Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, and Enugu.

Shaibu explained that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to decentralize sports development, revive Nigeria’s sporting culture, and create opportunities for young athletes nationwide.

He commended the Mbah administration for revitalising key sporting facilities such as the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and the Awgu Games Village, describing Enugu as an investor-friendly, secure, and forward-looking environment ideal for national projects.

“We are not merely planning an office; we are laying the foundation for a sporting revolution that will raise future champions who will bring glory to Nigeria. This partnership will stimulate local employment, expand infrastructure, and open global opportunities for young talents across the South East,” Shaibu declared.

Responding, Governor Mbah lauded the Federal Government and President Tinubu for their foresight in strengthening sports institutions, describing the development as a welcome boost to the region’s growing sports sector.

“You have made the right choice by coming to Enugu. We are very rich in sports history — this is the city of sporting legends where champions were born, trained, and celebrated. Sports is not just recreation; it drives social and economic growth, and we take it seriously,” Mbah said.

He assured the NIS team of his administration’s full support, including provision of accommodation, logistics, and institutional backing to ensure the smooth take-off of the zonal headquarters.

Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance and youth empowerment, Governor Mbah stressed that his administration remains focused on creating equal opportunities for education, health, innovation, and talent development.

“For us, this is not about tokenism but genuine service to our people. We will continue to build an environment where young people can dream, achieve, and thrive — in sports, innovation, and enterprise,” he concluded.