_Shares Moment with South African Sprint Star Akani Simbine Ahead of World Athletics Relays_
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has urged Africans across the continent and in the diaspora to embrace unity, love, and mutual respect, insisting that xenophobia has no place in modern Africa.
Olopade made the call while visiting Team Nigeria’s training session in Gaborone, Botswana, ahead of the World Athletics Relays. During the visit, he had a friendly chat with South African sprint star Akani Simbine and used the moment to push a message of peace and African solidarity.
“South Africa and Nigeria, we are one. Stop the xenophobia. Stop attacking your brothers. We are all Africans and we are one family. I am here with Simbine from South Africa,” Olopade said.
The DG said sport remains one of Africa’s strongest unifiers, breaking barriers of nationality, language, and politics. He noted that the mutual respect between Nigerian and South African athletes in Gaborone should be a model for wider relations.
“Look at what is happening here at training. Athletes from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, all sharing the same track, encouraging one another. That is the Africa we want. Our young people must see that we are stronger together,” he added.
Olopade urged political leaders, community heads, and citizens in both countries to reject divisive rhetoric and protect the historic ties between Africa’s two largest economies.
“When Simbine runs, Nigerians cheer. When our athletes win, South Africans celebrate too. That is global harmony through sport. Let’s take that spirit from the track to our streets, markets, and neighborhoods. We are one family,” he concluded.
Team Nigeria is in Gaborone for final preparations ahead of the World Athletics Relays, where both Nigeria and South Africa will compete. Olopade said the Commission will continue to use sport as a tool for diplomacy, youth engagement, and continental integration.
