Sports

NSC Recognises AFFAN for Inclusion in National Sports Federations’ Boards

Published

1 month ago

August 30, 2025

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) agenda of enhancing women’s participation in sports governance.

In line with this objective, the NSC is pleased to announce the formal recognition of the Association of Former Female Athletes of Nigeria (AFFAN) as a stakeholder in the governance structure of National Sports Federations (NSF).

This strategic milestone reflects Nigeria’s resolve to align with international standards while promoting gender inclusiveness in sports administration.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, have consistently championed inclusiveness in the Commission’s leadership structure. Today, three of the NSC’s core departments are led by outstanding women — Mrs. Mbora (Federations and Elite Athletes), Mrs. Amaka Ashiofu (Grassroots), and Mrs. Thecla Opara (Festivals & Para Sports). Their stewardship exemplifies how gender inclusion strengthens governance and drives excellence.

By recommending AFFAN’s representation on NSF boards, the NSC is not only creating new opportunities for women in governance but also tapping into the wealth of knowledge, discipline, and inspiration of Nigeria’s former female athletes. These national heroes once carried Nigeria’s colours with pride and distinction in international arenas. Now, their experience and passion will help guide policies, mentor the next generation, and ensure that their legacy continues in the boardroom.

By increasing women’s representation on the boards of national sports federations, the NSC seeks not only to comply with global best practices but also to expand leadership opportunities for former female athletes who have proudly represented the country on national and international stages.

The Commission acknowledges that the experiences, insights, and contributions of these accomplished athletes remain invaluable to the future of Nigerian sports. Their inclusion will further strengthen governance, inspire young athletes, and sustain the legacy of excellence that has brought honour to Nigeria over the years.

The inclusion of AFFAN is therefore more than an administrative reform. It is a recognition that those who brought Nigeria medals and glory must also be entrusted with shaping the structures that will produce tomorrow’s champions.

Accordingly, the NSC has approved that AFFAN shall be represented on the boards of national sports federations in the forthcoming elections.

Through this recognition, the NSC reiterates its commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and sustainable growth in Nigerian sports.

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Sports

Nigeria Jets Out Tuesday for 2025 Hockey AFCON as Federation President Engr Nkom Backs Teams for Podium Finish

Published

8 hours ago

October 5, 2025

The Gleamer

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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