Sports
AFN Re-Elects Okowa as President, Urges Stakeholder Unity for Athletic Excellence
Joel Ajayi
In what can only be described as a landslide victory, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has re-elected Chief Tonobok Okowa to continue leading the country’s athletics governing body for another four-year term.
Okowa, who served as president during the previous administration, secured 42 votes, with 4 void votes, underscoring strong confidence in his leadership and the progress made under his watch.
Joining him in leadership are Ladan Abubakar Zumi, elected as 1st Vice President, and Akuchukwu Aghazu Chineze, elected as 2nd Vice President. Both will serve alongside Okowa for the next four years.
Other elected board members include Gabriel Okon, Samuel Okiekwu, Fatima Yusuf, Professor Frank Atare, Lekan Soetan, Adamu Babayo, Oluyomi Sule, and Victor Okorie.
In his post-election address, President Okowa called for unity among all stakeholders, urging them to put aside differences and work collectively for the betterment of Nigerian athletics.
“This mandate is not merely a personal victory; it is a sacred renewal of our shared commitment to the future of Nigerian athletics. To every delegate who cast their vote—whether for me or for my fellow aspirants—I extend my sincerest gratitude,” Okowa said.
He emphasized that the next four years must be marked by collaboration and mutual trust:
“Athletics is not a solitary race; it is a relay. Every stakeholder—athletes, coaches, administrators, and fans—must pass the baton with trust. Let us move beyond divisions and focus on the finish line: a Nigeria celebrated globally for excellence, integrity, and unity in sport,” he declared.
Chief Okowa reaffirmed that his mission will remain anchored on five key pillars: Talent and Youth Development, Technical Excellence, Anti-Doping Advocacy, Uncompromising Integrityand Athlete Safeguarding.
He pledged to prioritize athlete development and capacity enhancement for coaches, emphasizing that athletes are the heart of the federation.
“To our athletes: You are the soul of this federation. We will fight for your dreams as fiercely as you race for medals. Expect enhanced support—better training facilities, scientific backup, insurance, mental health resources, and dignified remuneration.”
“Your expertise is our engine. We will invest in your growth and recognize your pivotal role.”
Wasting no time in setting the tone for a new chapter, Chief Okowa announced a refreshed board aimed at driving much-needed reforms across the federation.
Key honorary co-opted members appointed to strategic roles include:
Dr. Nnneka Anizebe – Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Dele Edokpayi – Legal Advisor
Kolawale Oredipe – Auditor
Babajide John Odedeji – Safeguard Officer
Meanwhile, the election for the Coaches/Technical Officials representative remains unresolved. The contest between Solomon Aliyu and Professor Ogunjimi ended in a deadlock. The electoral committee has postponed the vote, with a new date yet to be announced.
With a renewed mandate and clear vision, Chief Tonobok Okowa looks set to lead Nigerian athletics into a new era of progress, excellence, and global recognition.
Sports
“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.
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