Sports

NSC Recognises AFFAN for Inclusion in National Sports Federations’ Boards

Published

1 month ago

August 30, 2025

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) agenda of enhancing women’s participation in sports governance.

In line with this objective, the NSC is pleased to announce the formal recognition of the Association of Former Female Athletes of Nigeria (AFFAN) as a stakeholder in the governance structure of National Sports Federations (NSF).

This strategic milestone reflects Nigeria’s resolve to align with international standards while promoting gender inclusiveness in sports administration.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, have consistently championed inclusiveness in the Commission’s leadership structure. Today, three of the NSC’s core departments are led by outstanding women — Mrs. Mbora (Federations and Elite Athletes), Mrs. Amaka Ashiofu (Grassroots), and Mrs. Thecla Opara (Festivals & Para Sports). Their stewardship exemplifies how gender inclusion strengthens governance and drives excellence.

By recommending AFFAN’s representation on NSF boards, the NSC is not only creating new opportunities for women in governance but also tapping into the wealth of knowledge, discipline, and inspiration of Nigeria’s former female athletes. These national heroes once carried Nigeria’s colours with pride and distinction in international arenas. Now, their experience and passion will help guide policies, mentor the next generation, and ensure that their legacy continues in the boardroom.

By increasing women’s representation on the boards of national sports federations, the NSC seeks not only to comply with global best practices but also to expand leadership opportunities for former female athletes who have proudly represented the country on national and international stages.

The Commission acknowledges that the experiences, insights, and contributions of these accomplished athletes remain invaluable to the future of Nigerian sports. Their inclusion will further strengthen governance, inspire young athletes, and sustain the legacy of excellence that has brought honour to Nigeria over the years.

The inclusion of AFFAN is therefore more than an administrative reform. It is a recognition that those who brought Nigeria medals and glory must also be entrusted with shaping the structures that will produce tomorrow’s champions.

Accordingly, the NSC has approved that AFFAN shall be represented on the boards of national sports federations in the forthcoming elections.

Through this recognition, the NSC reiterates its commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and sustainable growth in Nigerian sports.

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Sports

FCT FA Board Member Urges Grassroots Reform, Hopeful For Super Eagles World Cup Qualification

Published

2 hours ago

October 5, 2025

The Gleamer

Legal Practitioner And Administrator Barr Bucknor Threatens To Petition FCT Minister Over Abandoned Stadiums

Despite Nigeria’s precarious position in the race for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Barrister Babatunde Burknor, a board member of the FCT Football Association (FA), remains hopeful that the Super Eagles can still secure qualification.

Nigeria currently sits third in their qualification group with 11 points from 8 matches, trailing Benin Republic and South Africa, who both lead with 14 points. Yet Burknor, a seasoned football administrator and grassroots sports advocate, believes all is not lost.

In a recent interview made available to BSN Sports, Burknor said: “Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may appear almost impossible, but that doesn’t mean it is out of reach. The situation is tough, yes, but looking at the quality of players in our squad, I still believe we can make it.”

He added that unexpected results from other group rivals could work in Nigeria’s favour.

“Football is unpredictable. There is still a chance that South Africa, Benin Republic, or Rwanda could drop points. If we win our remaining two games, we still stand a chance. Sometimes football reflects life where the strong may fall while the seemingly weak stand tall.”

Calls for Grassroots Reform in the FCT

Beyond national team concerns, Burknor also used the opportunity to address the state of sports development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urging the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to take concrete action to revamp local infrastructure.

“We have deep-rooted problems when it comes to grassroots sports. The major issue is a lack of funding and commitment from those charged with driving development at that level,” he said.

Burknor lamented the disappearance of once-thriving youth competitions like the Chairman’s Cup, Principal’s Cup, and Shell Cup, stating that such events played a crucial role in identifying and nurturing young talent.

“It’s disheartening that these programs are no longer active. Development is impossible without facilities, yet we lack even basic training grounds.”

The legal luminary revealed that he personally upgraded the sports facility at a government secondary school in his area to serve as a makeshift training centre, due to the absence of a functioning local stadium.

He is currently drafting a petition to Minister Wike, over abandoned stadiums in FCT, urging a comprehensive audit of officials responsible for sports development across the six Area Councils of the FCT.

Progress in Gwagwalada Football Development

As Vice Chairman of the Gwagwalada Football Council, Burknor highlighted the success of the Gwagwalada Football League, which has become a model for other Area Councils.

“In just two years, we’ve turned the Gwagwalada Football League into a success story. Several players from the league have already secured contracts in Europe. This shows what can be achieved with vision and consistency.”

Barrister Burknor, emphasized that grassroots football holds the key to Nigeria’s long-term football success and must be taken seriously.

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