The National Sports Commission (NSC) has ushered in a new era for Nigerian sports administration, following one of the most transparent, inclusive, and peaceful sports federation elections in recent memory.
Under the visionary leadership of NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, the elections marked a significant turning point in sports governance, attracting some of the nation’s most accomplished professionals to serve in key federation roles.
The elections, conducted freely and fairly, offered equal opportunities for all qualified stakeholders to contest and contribute to the renewed vision for the nation’s sports sector.
Observers say the outcome reflects growing confidence in the NSC’s reforms, emphasising merit, integrity, and national growth through sports.
Among the newly elected leaders are prominent captains of industry, public servants, and professionals with decades of leadership experience.
According to a statement by the S.A. Media, Office of the Director General, NSC, Kola Daniel, on Thursday, October 30, Notable appointments include: Mr. Wale Edun, Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, elected President of the Nigerian Boxing Federation.
Edun, a long-standing advocate for youth empowerment through sports, previously served as Chairman of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame and is set to deepen the sport’s development under NSC’s revitalised vision.
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Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo, two-time Governor of Gombe State and sitting Senator, elected President of the Nigeria Chess Federation. Senator Dankwambo is expected to bring strategic leadership and governance expertise to the intellectual sport.
Senator Obinna Ogba, elected President of the Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria, will contribute his extensive experience in sports administration to the growth and preservation of Nigeria’s indigenous sports heritage.
Rt. Honourable Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, elected President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, reflecting the NSC’s commitment to inclusive and diverse leadership participation across all sports.
Mr. Uyi Akpata, re-elected unopposed as President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) for a second term. A senior regional partner at PwC, Akpata has been instrumental in raising the standards of Nigerian cricket, advancing grassroots development, and promoting the country’s sporting image globally.
Hon. Bukola Olopade described the election process as a “new benchmark for transparency and inclusiveness.” He added, “Our focus has been to restore confidence in the system. These elections are a testament to our resolve to reposition Nigerian sports as a beacon of integrity and innovation.”
With this new wave of credible and accomplished leadership, the NSC reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing excellence, strengthening governance across federations, and ensuring Nigerian sports thrive both locally and on the global stage.
