NSA Commits To Grassroots Sports Development
Lunsar —
The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering commitment to the development of grassroots sports in Sierra Leone. This pledge was made during his attendance at the 2026 edition of the renowned Tour d’ Lunsar Cycling Festival held in Lunsar on Sunday.
Leading a high-level NSA delegation to the annual event, Dr. Abdulai lauded the festival as a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can significantly contribute to advancing sports development nationwide. He highlighted that the cycling festival is closely aligned with the broader national development vision championed by President Julius Maada Bio, emphasizing the importance of sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social cohesion.
Commending Abdul Karim, popularly known as “Stylish,” the founder and chief organiser of the Tour d’ Lunsar, Dr. Abdulai described the event as a practical and inspiring model for nurturing talent and promoting cycling across the country. “The Tour d’ Lunsar is a clear demonstration of what structured and committed sports development can achieve at the community level,” he remarked, praising the dedication and organizational excellence behind the festival.
Dr. Abdulai also reiterated that the NSA remains steadfast in its statutory mandate to develop, promote, and regulate sports throughout Sierra Leone. He pledged continued institutional support to ensure not only the sustainability but also the expansion of the Tour d’ Lunsar Festival in the years ahead. His commitment signals the government’s recognition of grassroots events as vital incubators for athletic talent and community development.
The NSA delegation was composed of directors Steven Keifala, Lamin Sesay, Alie Sesay, and John Emmanuel Ngegba. Dr. Abdulai was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Sadiatu Abdulai, who also showed enthusiastic support for the event.
Since its inception, the Tour d’ Lunsar Cycling Festival has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most celebrated sporting events, drawing cyclists and spectators from all corners of the country. Its success year after year underscores the growing popularity of cycling and the potential for sports to foster unity and healthy competition among Sierra Leoneans.
As the Tour d’ Lunsar continues to inspire communities and athletes alike, the NSA’s reaffirmed support ensures that grassroots sports will remain a central pillar of Sierra Leone’s sports development agenda.
