The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has applauded the President of the Nigeria Flag Football Federation, Babajide Akeredolu, in acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions to the development of the sport in the country.
Hon. Olopade made the remarks during a reception held in Abuja to celebrate Nigeria’s flag football teams following their historic triumph at the inaugural International Federation of American Football (IFAF) African Flag Football Championship, which took place from June 20 to 21 in Cairo, Egypt.
Akeredolu’s financial support was instrumental in the participation of both the men’s and women’s teams in the Championship, and was lauded for his financial, moral, and logistical commitments to the team. Hon. Olopade described Akeredolu’s contributions as focal to Nigeria’s double-gold success in Cairo, Egypt.
“The time, money, and energy you invested in these teams clearly demonstrates your deep commitment to Nigerian sports,” Hon. Olopade stated.
“You have brought a new dimension to the development of flag football, and for this, you deserve a national honour. Your contribution aligns with the vision of the National Sports Commission and the sports development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
The Nigerian men’s team clinched gold after a nail-biting 13–12 victory over hosts Egypt in a packed Club One Stadium in Maadi, Cairo. The event was graced by dignitaries, including Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Ashraf Sobhi.
In the women’s final, Nigeria delivered a commanding 26–12 win against Morocco, powered by two second-half touchdowns from quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello.
Nigeria’s triumph at the Championship earned both teams automatic qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships.
The tournament marked a significant milestone in the rise of flag football both on the African continent and globally, as the sport prepares for its debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Tunisia secured bronze in the men’s category, while Egypt claimed third place in the women’s event.
Hon. Olopade also revealed that IFAF had formally communicated with the National Sports Commission through the Presidency in recognition of Akeredolu’s efforts and Nigeria’s exceptional performance.
