The Nigerian Association for Women in Sports
(NAWIS) is celebrating a significant milestone with the election of former Nigerian international athlete, Fatimat Yusuf-Olukoju, as its representative on the Board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
In a testament to her dedication and expertise, Yusuf-Olukoju secured 30 votes, surpassing veteran sports journalist Nneka Anibeze who garnered 15 votes.
The election, held in Abuja, was a resounding success, thanks to the active participation and enthusiasm of NAWIS members. 
The sports community has warmly welcomed Yusuf-Olukoju’s election, citing her vast experience, dedication, and in-depth knowledge of athletics as key qualifications that will enable her to champion the interests of women in sports, drive its development in Nigeria.
NAWIS President, Professor Mariam Adefunke Suleiman, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all members and participants who contributed to the success of the election process. In a remarkable speech, she thanked the members for upholding the values of integrity, fairness, and mutual respect that define NAWIS. “Your voices were heard, and your votes counted,” she said, emphasizing the significance of unity and collective effort in achieving NAWIS’s objectives.
Professor Suleiman also acknowledged the founder of NAWIS, Professor Adeyanju, for her tireless efforts in holding the organization together and fostering its growth. “We appreciate your leadership and commitment to NAWIS,” she said.
Yusuf-Olukoju’s election marks a significant milestone for NAWIS and women in sports, her leadership is expected to yield positive outcomes for the development of athletics in Nigeria. NAWIS moves forward with its new representative on the AFN Board, the organization looks forward to continued progress, unity, and success.
Professor Suleiman expressed her enthusiasm for the future of NAWIS and its members. “As we move forward, I look forward to continued progress, unity, and success,” she said,
emphasizing the organization’s commitment to advancing the interests of women in sports.
With Fatimat Yusuf-Olukoju at the helm, NAWIS is poised to make a meaningful impact on the development of athletics in Nigeria, and the organization is confident that her leadership will yield positive outcomes for women in sports.
Photo credit- NAWIS
