Sports
Dr. Ogunbiyi Emerges New President of Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, Vows Greater Development
Joel Ajayi
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi on Saturday emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, taking over from Rear Admiral Festus Porbeni (rtd).
In an election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Ogunbiyi polled all 13 votes cast to win unopposed in what stakeholders described as one of the freest and fairest elections in recent times.
Similarly, Mr. Kayode Abulazeez was elected Vice President after securing 13 out of 13 votes.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Ogunbiyi commended the outgoing president for laying a solid foundation for the Federation.
He noted that under Porbeni’s leadership, Nigeria achieved notable milestones, including participation in Olympic qualifiers.
“Over the last 10 to 15 years, the Federation has gained national recognition through sacrifice and commitment. We must now build on that foundation to take rowing, canoeing, and sailing to the next level,” Ogunbiyi said.
He stressed that infrastructure development and nationwide talent scouting will be top priorities for the new board, adding that Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold great potential for the growth of water sports.
“We will consolidate on what has been achieved and, with the support of government agencies and corporate sponsors, I believe that within one to two years we will witness massive progress in this sport,” he added.
Ogunbiyi also acknowledged the challenge of Nigeria’s poor maintenance culture, promising that the Federation will not only construct new facilities but also maintain existing ones in line with international standards.
He pledged to align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in driving sustainable development in the sport.
On his own, the Vice President Kayode Abulazeez, appreciated the delegates for their confidence and stressed that infrastructure remains key to discovering hidden talents across the country.
“Nigeria is blessed with diverse water bodies, and we must make rowing, canoeing, and sailing inclusive sports developed across all regions,” he said.
Speaking also, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, described the election as seamless and transparent, noting that strict adherence to rules and regulations ensured its credibility.
“This is one of the freest and fairest elections conducted in recent times. My charge to the new board is to work in unity and harmony to move the Federation forward,” Bamiduro stated.
He also commended the management of the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman, and Dr. Bukola Olopade, Secretary-General, for providing the enabling environment for the successful conduct of the polls.
Sports
Onikeku Promises Bigger, Better Second Phase of CGC Volleyball Premier League
By Joel Ajayi
As the curtain fell on the first stanza of the 2025 Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Volleyball Premier League in Abuja, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) assured fans and players of an even more exciting and competitive second phase.
The prestigious competition, now a highlight on Nigeria’s volleyball calendar, features 24 teams—12 men’s and 12 women’s—battling for supremacy. At the end of the first phase, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) team emerged leaders in the men’s category, while Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) dominated the women’s division, crowned halfway champions after winning all their matches.
The decisive second phase will once again hold in Abuja from November 29 to December 10, when the overall champions will be officially crowned. Beyond the grand prizes at stake, the CGC has demonstrated strong commitment to the league, investing ₦24 million as subsidies in the first phase, with the same support guaranteed for the finale.
Speaking after the closing of first Phase in Abuja, NCS Director of Sports, Samuel Onikeku—representing the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi—promised an improved final stage.
“We are committed to delivering a better and more competitive second phase,” Onikeku assured, stressing that the Customs leadership remains determined to strengthen volleyball and promote sports development across Nigeria.
Reflecting on the first phase, Onikeku expressed satisfaction with the performance of the female team, which played 11 matches and won all. He noted that reorganization and strategic trials held two months ago helped the squad overcome earlier challenges.
On the men’s side, he described their second-place finish as a significant improvement compared to last year, while promising more work ahead. “Even though our women won all their games, we will still make improvements. The ultimate goal is to perform strongly at the continental club championship,” he said.
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