HRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh Yakmut HRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh Yakmut

HRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh Yakmut, a distinguished sports administrator, Chairman of Plateau United Football Club and District Head of Chanso in Mangu LGA of Plateau state, in this interview with Blueprint.ng speaks on the just concluded Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Plateau United and other issues.

Excerpts…

Fresh contribution to sports development

I have been very lucky in life, and I still consider myself fortunate. I was in Glasgow in 2014 then in active service. This is the second time, though in a different capacity.

I grew up in sports, both as a player and an administrator. Now, I am here as a technical observer. While the responsibility is different, the emotions remain the same because the athletes are representing Nigeria. As a Nigerian, I was eager to see them perform, and I am not disappointed with what I have seen so far.

I describe this year’s Commonwealth Games as an average edition because only about 10 sports were contested, unlike previous editions with a wider programme. However, I see this as a sustainability initiative to ensure the Games continue, and I commend Glasgow for agreeing to host the event again.

Nigeria’s performance at 2026 Commonwealth Games

The parameters for assessment are naturally limited because of the reduced number of sports. However, this competition is an important stepping stone towards the Olympics. As observers, we have already begun planning for the next Olympic Games. We have identified about five priority sports, including para sports, with athletics, particularly the sprints and throwing events, requiring immediate attention. The selected athletes should receive full funding, comprehensive medical support and social welfare to eliminate distractions. Their participation in competitions such as the Diamond League must also be carefully managed.

Preparing athletes is one thing, but ensuring they peak at the Olympics is another. We do not want them producing their best performances before the Games. Our objective is for them to reach peak performance at the Olympics. That is why we came here not just as ceremonial guests, but also as technical observers, advisers and supporters.

Improved athletes welfare, motivation

HRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh YakmutHRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh Yakmut

Absolutely… Psychology teaches us that motivation is both intrinsic and extrinsic. The extrinsic motivation provided through bonuses and improved welfare has played a significant role. It is an old tradition that has not only been sustained but strengthened, and I commend the current administration for maintaining that support.

Ahead of Los Angeles 2026 Olympics

One positive aspect of this Commonwealth Games is that several of our medallists have genuine Olympic potentials. Our preparations must be strategic and targeted. We should assess athletes based on their performances, ages, potential and how they compare with competitors from other countries. From there, we must develop deliberate programmes that keep them healthy, technically sound and competitive. For instance, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi is still at a good age for the shot put, while Jessica, who won silver in the discus, is only 19. With proper technical supervision and sustained support, these athletes can become Olympic medallists within the next two years. Rather than spreading our resources, we should concentrate on athletes with realistic medal prospects.

Assessment athletes’ performance at Glasgow 2026

That reinforces my point about precision in preparation. Take Tobi Amusan, for example. Expectations were based largely on her past achievements rather than her current realities. Then there was another athlete who underwent surgery shortly before competing. These are issues that should have been identified and managed much earlier. Every athlete’s health, fitness, psychology, finances and competition schedule must be carefully monitored. Look at Kanyinsola Ajayi. Despite being one of the fastest men in the world this season, he won bronze. That shows how much scientific planning and performance management matter.

Preparation should involve accurate prediction, careful planning and scientific monitoring. Athletes should not be forced to compete excessively simply to earn income. Government should fully support their competition schedules and ensure they participate only in events that align with Olympic preparation. There is little value in winning a Diamond League title just weeks before the Olympics if you cannot reproduce that performance when it matters most.

HRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh YakmutHRH Mallam Al-Hassan Saleh Yakmut

Special appeal to athletes, administrators

To the athletes, I urge resilience, discipline and self-control. To administrators, there should be no shortcuts in preparing athletes. No Olympic medal comes cheaply, and no successful Olympic campaign is easy. Countries that consistently win medals do not compromise on preparation. I’m encouraged that the current administration appears committed to providing athletes with the support they need to improve Nigeria’s standing on the Olympic medal table.

Talking about remaining active in sports after public service retirement

As a citizen, I believe it would be wrong to waste the experience I have accumulated over the years. I also believe it is important to keep learning and updating one’s knowledge to remain innovative and relevant. That is why I enjoy mentoring younger sports administrators and sharing my experience with them.

Current plans for Plateau United

We have already begun preparations for the new season by appointing the right technical coach and technical adviser. We are recruiting players from across the country and restructuring the squad significantly. About 19 players are being replaced to strengthen every department of the team. Our objective is to build a squad capable of qualifying for the CAF inter-club competitions.

Coach Gbenga Ogunbote’s future at Plateau United?

Yes. The governor has approved his contract and given us a clear mandate. Last season, we inherited a team that was 19th on the table and in danger of relegation. We successfully guided the club to a 10th-place finish. This season, our target is much higher. We are aiming for a top-three finish and continental qualification. The coach is already scouting quality players in defence, midfield and attack to help us achieve that objective.

On new minimum salary of up to ₦2 million for NPFL players

The proposal should be considered alongside improvements in the league’s commercial value. As a member of the committee representing club owners, we have recommended that any salary increase should be matched by better marketing, improved sponsorship and enhanced prize money. I believe we are likely to see a new framework for the league this season.

Assessing the NPFL

The league has obvious strengths and enormous potentials, but it also has weaknesses, especially in its commercial operations. A committee was recently established to improve the league’s commercial value, and I had the privilege of chairing it. We submitted a comprehensive report containing seven key recommendations. I would rather not disclose the details yet. It is better to wait for the league management to release its white paper before discussing those recommendations publicly.