By Joel Ajayi

Dr. Musa Oshodi has been re-elected as President of the Nigeria Judo Federation, reaffirming his commitment to advancing the growth and development of the sport across the country.

• 

The election, held on Thursday in Abuja, was described as free, fair, and transparent. Dr. Oshodi secured a landslide victory, polling all 31 out of 31 votes cast, earning him a 2nd term as president with 100% of the votes 

The election marks a new chapter for the Nigeria Judo Federation as it seeks to build on past achievements and chart a progressive course for the future of the sport.

As for the position of Vice President Salisu Mohammed polled 36 votes out of 36 votes casted.

In the position of the Treasurers Position, Janet Adakwu Nwagwu scored 34 votes out of total 36 casted.

In other key positions: Franca Audu emerged as the Athlete Representative on the board, winning with 25 out of 25 votes cast.

Amos Iliya clinched the position of Technical Representative, securing 25 out of 26 votes.

As Zonal representatives elected to the board include: Salisu Mohammed Aliyu North West; Ado Umar Garko – North East; Damisa Suleiman – North Central; Musa Oshodi  South West; Esudu Lawrence – South East and Josh Franklin – South South

With this mandate, Dr. Oshodi expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to work even harder to take the sport to new heights and renewed mandate comes with clear priorities: consolidation, grassroots revival, international competitiveness, and strong institutional partnerships. 

He  unveiled a bold and forward-looking agenda aimed at consolidating past achievements and elevating the sport to new heights.

“This second term is not just a continuation—it’s for consolidation and advancement,” 

“We will build on the gains we’ve made and push forward with renewed energy and purpose.”

Dr. Oshodi reaffirmed his commitment to positioning judo as a premier sport in Nigeria, alongside football, athletics, and wrestling. His core agenda includes upgrading the skills of athletes, coaches, and referees through professional training programs.

 “We can’t focus solely on athletes—our coaches and referees are just as important. Coaches train them, and referees represent our federation on the global stage. We must build their technical and mental capacity.”

He emphasized the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and revealed plans to constitute a credible marketing committee made up of experienced professionals. This team will be responsible for generating the funds needed to realize the federation’s ambitious goals.

Oshodi also stressed the critical role of the media in the growth of judo in Nigeria, describing it as “the soul of any business.”

He stated said, one of the major pillars of Oshodi’s second term is a robust grassroots revival plan, including cadet and junior tournaments nationwide.

He added that these grassroots initiatives would be consistent and strategic, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact.

Looking ahead, Oshodi outlined the federation’s strategy for international representation, especially with eyes on future Olympic Games.”

He emphasized the need for early preparation and close monitoring of elite athletes, many of whom are already training abroad.

“We want to ensure they get access to grants and proper training. Our national coaches will maintain close oversight no matter where these athletes are based.”

Under Oshodi’s previous tenure, the federation saw notable progress in athlete participation and organizational structure. With his re-election, expectations are high for sustained momentum and even greater achievements in the coming years.