OGUNBIYI EMERGES PRESIDENT AS NIGERIA ROWING FEDERATION ELECTS NEW BOARD

The 14-member board of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation (NRCSF), drawn from various constituencies, has elected Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi as its new President following a successful election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on October 4, 2025.

The election was conducted in a transparent, fair, and inclusive manner, with 13 representatives participating. All delegates unanimously elected the new President and Vice President.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, the President-elect, emphasised his commitment to continuity and progress while unveiling an ambitious agenda for the Federation’s future. “Today marks a new era for our Federation. With unwavering commitment and dedication, we shall strive to reach unprecedented heights in this field. I am honoured to take on this responsibility and look forward to leading all of you towards success,” he said.

Both the President and the Vice President, Mr. Kayode Abdulaziz Olowu, received 13 votes each from the board members, emerging unopposed, while one board member was unavoidably absent.

Delegates at the election included representatives from the six geopolitical zones: Mr. Yunusa Abdulahi (North Central), Prince Ayuba Simon (North East), Hajiya Yoman Halima Usman (North West), Sir Wadi Braveman Ereddoye (South South), Mr. Uthman Ola Okunna (South West), and Professor Ngozi Ani (South East).

Other constituency representatives were Madam Khadijat Abdulrazak (NAWIS Representative), Professor Oyeniyi Patrick (NAPHER-SD Representative), Commander Umaru Abdulhamid (Military/Paramilitary Representative), Mrs. Olayinola Fortune (Technical Representative), and Mr. Tabiu Adebayo (Athletes’ Representative).

The newly elected President, alongside his Vice President and the entire board, pledged to bring their expertise and wealth of experience to strengthen the Federation. Their unanimous election signifies a solid foundation for the future growth and development of water sports in Nigeria.

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, congratulated the new board and commended the smooth conduct of the election, noting that the process reflected unity, transparency, and the collective will of the Federation. He lauded the delegates for their maturity and commitment to the progress of water sports in the country.

He urged the new leadership to work in harmony and maintain the spirit of togetherness that characterised the election.

“This, no doubt, will further uplift the Federation’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading sports governing bodies. The Federation is poised to take on new challenges with renewed vigour and determination to continue serving Nigerians across all regions,” he said.

The new leadership team has pledged to work tirelessly to enhance the Federation’s capabilities and achievements in rowing, canoeing, and sailing nationwide.

Dr. Mrs. Kehinde Ajayi, FCAI, ANIPR

Director Information and PR

October 5, 2025