NSA Boss Prioritizes Partnership with NOC for Sports Development
By Bockarie Allieu
232news –
The newly appointed Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mohamed Alphaka Conteh Esq., has reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the National Olympic Committee (NOC), describing it as a key partner in advancing sports development in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Conteh made this statement during a visit to the NOC headquarters in Freetown, a day after the NOC Executive paid a courtesy call on him at his office. He noted that collaboration with the NOC is essential for success in his new role.
He emphasized that the NOC remains a critical body that brings together most of the major sporting disciplines in the country, adding that its executive is made up of experienced leaders in various sports.
The NSA boss stressed that he is not in office to work in isolation, but to collaborate with established institutions like the NOC to promote development across all sporting sectors. He further disclosed that President Julius Maada Bio had advised him to maintain discipline and unity within the sports sector.
“For far too long, there have been disagreements in some sporting disciplines, and this has slowed down development,” he said, calling on stakeholders to always find common ground despite differences.
He assured representatives of various sporting bodies present at the meeting that his leadership would remain open and inclusive, adding that his doors are open to constructive engagement and criticism that can help improve decision-making.
“Sports brings people together regardless of tribe or religion, and we must use it as a tool for unity,” he noted.
In his response, NOC President Prince Vandy Sualley described the visit as a great honour and an important step toward strengthening institutional collaboration between the two bodies.
He said both the NSA and NOC share the responsibility to regulate, develop, and promote sports in Sierra Leone, adding that effective cooperation and strategic alignment are necessary to achieve meaningful results.
Prince Sualley emphasized that success in international competitions depends on decisions made today regarding planning, resource allocation, and cooperation among institutions.
“We must not only participate in competitions, but aim to win laurels for Sierra Leone,” he stated.
He concluded by calling for a renewed commitment to building a stronger, more coordinated, and performance-driven sports system in the country.
At the end of the meeting, the NOC presented a Sierra Leone jersey to the NSA boss and conducted a tour of its facilities.
