By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

 

The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) on Tuesday celebrated outstanding dedication and commitment at a high-profile awards ceremony, recognising staff members and sports administrators who have distinguished themselves in their various fields.

 

Speaking at the event, Ibrahim Aliyu, Executive Director, Special Duties, who represented the NTA Director-General, Salihu Dembos, described the ceremony as “extremely important” and called for it to be institutionalised as an annual tradition. He noted that recognising excellence serves as a strong motivation for others to perform at their best, while also reinforcing professionalism across the organisation.

 

Aliyu highlighted the unifying role of sports in Nigeria, describing it as a powerful tool for bringing people together while promoting learning, development and exposure.

 

“Sports not only unites Nigerians, it also opens doors for growth and discovery,” he said.

 

He praised NTA Sports 24, Nigeria’s only 24-hour sports television channel, for providing a national platform to showcase sporting talent from across the country. Aliyu also disclosed that NTA management plans to further strengthen the sports department to ensure its programmes are well structured, impactful and aligned with the organisation’s broader objectives.

 

The NTA Director-General, Salihu Dembos, was among the award recipients, receiving an Award of Excellence in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the organisation.

 

Other notable awardees included Saidu Jubril, President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria; Simon Nkom, President of the Hockey Federation; Ademola Are, President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation; Alhaji Abdulmajeed Solademi, Chairman of Air Warriors Basketball Club; and Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service.

 

The awards ceremony underscored the NTA’s commitment to promoting excellence, while also highlighting the critical role of sports and dedicated professionals in fostering national unity, development and progress.