The Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA) held its 3rd National Convention in Abuja, celebrating 18 distinguished sports personalities and national stakeholders who have made significant contributions to Nigerian sports. The event, themed “The Labours of Our Heroes Past,” was a powerful show of appreciation and legacy-building
The awardees included iconic figures such as former Super Eagles coach and 1988 Olympian Augustine Eguavoen, Olympic sprint medalist Deji Aliu, former striker Samson Siasia, and veteran long jumper Yusuf Alli. Other notable awardees included Olympians Armelia Edet, Samson Oyeledun, Isaac Ikuohria, Mary Mkpolulu, and Cosmos Sampson Idioh.
The NOA also recognized stakeholders who have championed sports development in Nigeria. Among them were Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, veteran sports journalist Kunle Solaja, and BRILA FM Chairman Larry Izamoje.
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NOA President and former Olympic basketball captain, Olumide Oyedeji, emphasized the association’s mission to preserve history while advocating for athlete welfare and post-career support.
“This event is about saying ‘thank you’ to the legends who gave everything for Nigeria—on and off the field,” Oyedeji stated. “It’s also a call to action for renewed commitment to athlete development and sports governance.”
The three-day convention featured a fitness walk, medical outreach, and school visit, blending wellness with advocacy and mentorship. These activities highlighted the NOA’s commitment to ensuring that former Olympians are not forgotten and that upcoming generations have role models to emulate.
The Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA) held its 3rd National Convention in Abuja
The NOA’s convention reinforced a crucial message: national progress in sports must be rooted in honouring the past, investing in the present, and inspiring the future. As Nigeria looks to strengthen its sports ecosystem, the NOA’s efforts will play a vital role in promoting athlete development and sports governance.
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The celebration of sporting legends and stakeholders is a testament to the association’s dedication to preserving the history of Nigerian sports and promoting the welfare of athletes.
