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Badminton Federation of Nigeria Appoints Sports Management Expert, Blessing Ekwe Chisalam as COO

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The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has announced the appointment of Ekwe Blessing Chisalam as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

A dedicated sports enthusiast and accomplished sports scientist, Ms. Blessing holds a master’s degree in sports management and has a deep-rooted passion for sports.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Nigerian badminton, which has witnessed remarkable growth at the grassroots, national, and international levels.

Recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, the Director General of National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade has stated that the BFN must not rest on its oars, as loftier objectives lie ahead.

Speaking on her appointment, the President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih emphasized the importance of having a COO who shares the federation’s vision:

“We need someone who can project badminton with a positive image and align with our dreams and aspirations as a federation. Ms. Blessing is highly competent, a sports scientist, with a masters degree in sports management understands the physiology of the sports ecosystem. Her appointment will be instrumental in driving the growth of badminton in Nigeria.”

As the COO, the BFN aims to expand its outreach, economic appeal, enhance programs, improve administration , and create more competitive opportunities for the Federation.

With her extensive experience in administration, sports, and organization, Ms. Blessing is expected to elevate Nigerian badminton’s operations, in line with the objectives of the National
Sports Commission.

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No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday

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Joel Ajayi

The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.

With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.

Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.

The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.

In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.

While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.

Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.

This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.

Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?

Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.

She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.

Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.

Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.

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