The National Sports Commission (NSC) has congratulated former Nigeria international basketball star and sports administrator, Olumide Oyedeji, on his election as the Secretary General of the World Olympians Association (WOA).
Oyedeji was elected at the Annual General Meeting of the Association held on Sunday, a development that further elevates Nigeria’s profile within the global Olympic and sports governance community.
He remains the first African to ever hold such position at the World Olympians Association ( WOA ).
Congratulating him on the achievement, the NSC described Oyedeji’s election as well deserved, noting that it reflects his years of service, integrity, and commitment to the growth of sports and athlete welfare both locally and internationally.
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade stated that “Olumide Oyedeji’s election as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association is a proud moment for Nigeria and a clear recognition of his integrity, leadership, and lifelong service to sport and athlete welfare. He has consistently represented our nation with distinction, both on and off the court, and we are confident he will uphold the values of the Olympic movement while flying the Nigerian flag with pride on the global stage.”
Reacting to his election, Oyedeji expressed appreciation for the support he has continued to receive from Nigerian sports leadership.
“I use this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the DG and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission for the support they have continued to render to me and all others who strive to put our country’s name on the world sporting map. I further promise to do my best to uphold the name of our country at all times,” he said.
Oyedeji remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated basketball figures, having led the national team to its first-ever AfroBasket title in Tunisia in 2015. He also won silver medals at the FIBA Africa Nations Cup in 1997, 1999, and 2003, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s rise in African basketball.
He also Led Nigeria Basketball Team to first ever Gold Medal in Maputo All Africa Games 2011, Captain Team Nigeria from 2006 to 2016 All Africa Games , Commonwealth Games and Olympics Games.
He currently serves as the President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), 3rd Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), and Chairman of the Nigeria Athletes Commission, roles through which he continues to champion athlete development, representation, and welfare.
