The fifth edition of the course, organised in conjunction with the International Olympic Committee, was held in the NOC Boardroom and included participants from organisations such as the National Sports Commission.

Course facilitator Professor Clement Fassan of the Lagos State University singled out NOC President Habu Gumel for his "foresight" in bringing the event to the nation, claiming it will have an important impact in improving the standard of administration in Nigeria. 

It is now hoped that more participants will feature at the next such course, in order to further boost this impact.

The Advanced Sports Management Course is a project initiated by the Nigeria Olympic Committee and its President Habu Gumel (centre) ©Facebook



Gumel, the IOC member re-elected NOC President last year, was not present during the course but was represented by the body's secretary general, Babatunde Popoola, who said it was "exceptional" due to the presentations by professionals, who showed "complete understanding" of the core aims of the project.

The official charged the participants to now demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge at their various offices. 

It will also be hoped that benefits will trickle down to a sporting level, with Nigeria battling to avoid a repeat of the country's disappointing performance at the London 2012 Olympic Games, where a seemingly strong squad of 53 athletes did not win a single medal. 

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