Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation Eyes Olympic Glory with Security Agencies' Support

Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation Eyes Olympic Glory with Security Agencies' Support

By Admin 

The Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force have pledged institutional support to the Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation (NSSF) as the federation intensifies efforts to professionalise the sport and position Nigeria for international success, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

NSSF President, Commodore Mohammed Shettima, disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has accepted to serve as the Grand Patron of the federation. He added that the Nigeria Police Force will work closely with the NSSF on firearm licensing, member vetting and regulatory compliance.

Speaking with journalists at his office, Shettima said the federation had also engaged the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons to secure official recognition for the handling of sporting firearms in accordance with international standards.

To strengthen safety and public confidence, the federation has introduced stricter membership requirements. Prospective members will undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluations, verification of their National Identity Number (NIN) through the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and police background checks before being admitted.

Shettima explained that only approved sporting firearms—including 12-gauge shotguns, .22 calibre rifles and air rifles—will be authorised for civilian shooting competitions.

The NSSF President also announced that the Nigerian military has embraced the federation's vision, with the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Air Staff approving the establishment of shooting sport teams within their respective services.

"The Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Air Staff have agreed to establish Shooting Sport Teams. Today, we have Army, Navy and Air Force teams participating," he said.

According to Shettima, the federation's long-term objective extends beyond institutional development to achieving international sporting success. He revealed that discussions are at an advanced stage with a leading global firearms manufacturer for sponsorship to support Nigeria's preparations for future Olympic competitions.

"Our goal is to position Nigeria to win its first Olympic gold medal in shooting sport during the next Olympic cycle," he said.

On grassroots development, Shettima announced that shooting sport will make its debut at the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) competition before being introduced into secondary schools nationwide as part of efforts to discover and develop young talents.

"We are creating the same institutional credibility for civilian shooters that security agencies enjoy," he added.

Shettima also commended the media for its continued support in promoting the federation's activities. He further praised the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) for introducing reforms that encourage sports federations to attract private-sector investment through their Chief Operating Officers (COOs).

He described the initiative as a significant step towards building a more sustainable and financially viable sports development framework in Nigeria.