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By Victor Okoye<\/strong><\/p>\n The National Sports Commission (NSC) has pledged stronger collaboration with Nigeria\u2019s bodybuilding federation to boost talent development nationwide.<\/p>\n NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of Nigeria (ABBFN) delegation on Friday in Abuja.<\/p>\n The delegation was led by ABBFN President, Soye Elekima, who outlined the federation\u2019s strategic goals for the sport\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n Dikko said the partnership would enhance talent identification, upgrade training facilities, and improve competition standards across all levels.<\/p>\n He noted that the NSC would support national teams and organise workshops to strengthen championship structures nationwide.<\/p>\n He added that school-level fitness programmes would be promoted to ensure sustainable athlete development from an early stage.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are committed to building pathways from grassroots to elite levels for global competitiveness,\u201d Dikko said.<\/p>\n Dikko stressed the urgency of regulating gyms nationwide to curb mishaps and ensure proper certification of fitness instructors.<\/p>\n He said Elekima\u2019s visit came at a crucial time for strengthening safety standards and professionalism in the fitness industry.<\/p>\n The NSC boss pledged support for programmes, including the ShapeUp Nigeria 30\u00d730 Fitness Challenge initiative.<\/p>\n The initiative aims to reduce non-communicable diseases and promote healthier lifestyles among Nigerians.<\/p>\n The collaboration includes logistical support and prize funding to maintain high standards in national bodybuilding competitions.<\/p>\n It also features elite and junior training workshops targeting athletes aged six to 21.<\/p>\n Capacity-building programmes for coaches nationwide will further strengthen technical expertise in the sport.<\/p>\n The partnership will develop male and female athletes for regional and international competitions.<\/p>\n A highlight of the meeting was Dikko\u2019s induction into the World Fitness Sheriffs Department as Grand Commander.<\/p>\n The body also declared \u201cKeep Fit\u201d for observance of the last Saturday of the month to promote global health awareness.<\/p>\n Earlier, Elekima said Nigeria was ready to host IFBB Fitness and Bodybuilding League events and other competitions.<\/p>\n He noted that hosting such events would boost economic growth, create jobs, and attract global investment.<\/p>\n Elekima expressed confidence that NSC support would position Nigeria as a leading bodybuilding hub in Africa and beyond. (NAN)<\/p>\n Edited by Joseph Edeh<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n