Sports
Gymnastics Presidential Aspirant, Olalere Expresses Confidence in NSC to Uphold true Governance Structure in Election
…Says stakeholders retain full confidence in the Commission
By Joel Ajayi
The Nigerian gymnastics community is closely monitoring developments surrounding the forthcoming leadership election of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN).
Following the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) intervention to nullify the flawed exclusionary process that had denied four constituencies their voting rights, the Commission directed that a smooth and transparent election be held on October 18, 2025.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the Federation’s Presidential aspirant, Omowunmi Kafilat Olalere, commended the NSC for upholding due governance structures and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
Olalere warned that attempts by certain individuals to pressure the Commission into reversing its decision could plunge the Federation into confusion, erode trust, and jeopardize the credibility of the process.
“The NSC’s resolve to ensure fairness and inclusivity has given renewed hope to athletes, coaches, and administrators committed to the growth of gymnastics in Nigeria,” Olalere said. “Their boldness at this critical time will set a lasting precedent that positively reshapes the conduct of federation elections across the country.”
She further emphasized that there must be no reversal of the October 18 election date, stressing that any deviation would disenfranchise legitimate stakeholders and call the integrity of the entire process into question.
The aspirant also urged the NSC to remain resolute, provide further clarity where necessary, and ensure that the principles of transparency, equity, and accountability are upheld.
“Nigerian gymnastics deserves a credible and widely accepted leadership transition,” Olalere concluded.
Sports
Nigeria Jets Out Tuesday for 2025 Hockey AFCON as Federation President Engr Nkom Backs Teams for Podium Finish
Joel Ajayi
With the 2025 Hockey African Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to take place in Egypt from October 11 to 18, both the men’s and women’s national hockey teams are set to depart Nigeria on October 7, brimming with confidence and determination to make the nation proud.
The President of the Hockey Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Engineer Simon Nkom, speaking after a series of friendly matches at the Hockey Pitch, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, said the teams’ early preparation and intensive training camps have positioned them for a successful outing in Egypt.
“In sports—whether it’s hockey, handball, or basketball—fitness is key. That’s why we began camping weeks ago to build the players’ strength and resilience ahead of this major competition. This is the African Cup of Nations—the highest level of hockey on the continent. We’ve prepared well, and I’m confident our teams will finish on the podium,” he stated.
Nkom highlighted the significant progress Nigerian hockey has recorded in recent years, noting that the country’s world ranking improved from 56th to 36th, while in Hockey 5s, Nigeria now stands 12th globally.
“A few years ago, people barely knew hockey existed in Nigeria. Today, our women’s team ranks 3rd in Africa, and the men’s team is 4th. This growth is a product of deliberate grassroots development and consistent effort,” he added.
To ensure smooth participation and avoid past challenges of late arrivals at tournaments, the federation has finalized logistics for early departure.
“We’ve made all arrangements for the teams to leave early to acclimatize and play friendly matches before the competition begins. The players are motivated, relaxed, and ready to give their best. By God’s grace, they will return home with their heads held high,” Nkom assured.
The HFN President also lauded the federation’s board members for their commitment and teamwork over the past four years, which he said has greatly contributed to the sport’s steady rise in Nigeria.
Head coach Ndana Baba Abdullahi, who oversees both the men’s and women’s teams, praised the federation’s support and lauded the players’ work ethic throughout the extended training camp.
“We’ve worked very hard — morning and evening sessions, tactical drills, conditioning. The players have responded excellently. We started with 35 players and are now down to the final 18 who will make the trip,” Abdullahi said, adding that the early arrival in Egypt would give Nigeria a crucial psychological and tactical edge.
Men’s team captain, Michael John, expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and determination to make history in Egypt.
“We’re perfectly fine — we’ve trained hard and prepared well,” he said. “We’re just waiting for the whistle to blow. By God’s grace, we won’t disappoint our country or those who worked hard to send us there.”
Similarly, women’s team captain, Alfa Cornelius, echoed optimism about the team’s prospects.
“We’ve been camping for over a month, and the coaches have done a wonderful job. We’ve worked hard to match our opponents in both strength and skill. I’m 100% confident that we’ll perform excellently in Egypt,” she said.
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