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
Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Association (NVRA) has congratulated Tolu Oguntimehin on his election as Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.
NVRA described his emergence as an opportunity to strengthen sports journalism and advance the welfare of members.
Oguntimehin emerged victorious at the FCT SWAN elective congress held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, defeating his challenger, Raphael Ekpang, by 88 votes to four.
In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of Nigeria Volleyball Reporters, Alhaji Ganiyu Oloyede described the election outcome as a testament to the confidence reposed in Oguntimehin by members of the association.
Oloyede expressed optimism that the new chairman would bring purposeful leadership, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to the development of sports journalism in the FCT.
He stressed that the responsibility of leading the association goes beyond occupying an office.
Oloyede noted that the new administration must prioritise members’ welfare, professional development, unity and the protection of their collective interests.
The NVR chairman also challenged the incoming leadership to create an enabling environment where sports journalists can thrive professionally, gain greater access to sporting events and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.
He particularly welcomed Oguntimehin’s commitment to establishing a ₦200 million financial base for the association, describing the proposed initiative as an ambitious step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable SWAN FCT.
Oloyede further emphasised the importance of collaboration among sports journalists, sports federations, government institutions and other stakeholders, maintaining that stronger partnerships would create more opportunities for members and improve the quality of sports reporting.
He urged the new executive to embrace transparency, accountability and open communication while ensuring that every member feels represented in the administration.
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new SWAN FCT leadership in promoting sports journalism, strengthening professional relationships and projecting Nigerian sports positively.
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