Bako lauds Sportsville as ‘the most authentic’  sports award

In the letter dated March 26, 2026, Bako, who holds the traditional title of Kogunan Sokoto and a former Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), wrote: "It is with unbridled joy and untainted commitment to sports in Nigeria that I commend and appreciate this unique event — Sportsville Awards 2026 — on the occasion of its 6th edition.

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"Being a recipient of the award some years back, I have studiously followed the tremendous growth of what has now become the most authentic sports award in the country today.

"I congratulate all the recipients, but most especially Mr Kwame Arthur, whose passion, commitment, endurance, and inspirational mentorship of many established sports stars as well as upcoming talents I have personally witnessed.

"The choice of the Transformative Impact Award to be bestowed on Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, is both befitting and a challenge to bring his wealth of experience to geometrically elevate the fortunes of Nigerian sports as speedily as possible.

"For the Chief Executive Officer of Sportsville, Frank Ilaboya, and his management team, I felicitate with you and implore you to make us — your mentors, sports lovers, and colleagues in journalism — proud."

Bako has also served as Chairman of the Sokoto State Football Association and Special Adviser to the Sports Minister.

Last Friday, respected businessman Dr Godwin Ehigiamusoe, Chief Executive Officer of LAPO Microfinance Bank, also commended the organisers for standing out in the Nigerian sports awards space.

The ceremony, scheduled for April 3 at the Lagos Country Club, promises to bring together the crème de la crème of sports professionals in Nigeria.