The Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has paid a courtesy visit to Nigerian football legend, Emmanuel Okala, in Enugu, highlighting plans to revitalize sports institutions across the country.
During the visit, Okala recounted the Green Eagles’ golden era at the NIS hostel, National Stadium, Surulere, praising the comprehensive facilities, including medical support, physiologists, and quality meals that contributed to the team’s success.
“It’s incredible to see you here in my home,” Okala told Shaibu. “I’ve followed your work at the NIS, and I believe you have the vision to restore this institute’s former glory.”
Shaibu briefed the retired goalkeeper on his ongoing decentralization strategy, including the creation of a South-East Zonal Training Centre in Enugu. The DG emphasized that his agenda aims to improve training infrastructure, support athletes, and ensure that state-of-the-art facilities reach every region.
Okala, ever jovial despite age-related frailty, expressed confidence in Shaibu’s leadership, lauding his passion, prudence, and commitment to Nigerian sports. He also thanked Shaibu for supporting past and present athletes, noting that such efforts inspire hope in the country’s sporting community.
The meeting underscored a shared vision between former and current sports leaders to reignite the glory of Nigerian athletics, bridging past excellence with present-day innovation.