Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju wins NAWIS representative seat on AFN Board
By Dayo Awoniyi
Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju, an athlete of international repute and former Nigerian sprinter, has emerged victorious in the election for the Nigeria Association for Women in Sports (NAWIS) representative on the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) board.
The election took place on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with Olukoju securing 30 votes out of 45, defeating her sole opponent, Dr. Nneka Anibeze, who polled 15 votes.
Olukoju's emergence followed a transparent electoral process conducted by NAWIS, aligning with the revised AFN constitution, which reserves a dedicated seat on the board for a women in sports representative.
As a former Olympian and African champion, Olukoju brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with a record breaking performance in the 400 meters and a pivotal role in Nigeria's relay teams during the 1990s.
In her acceptance speech, Olukoju expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in her by NAWIS members, pledging to work relentlessly to promote the interests of women in sports.
"Once again, I want to thank our founder and the NAWIS EXCO leadership. Leadership isn’t about how far you advance yourself it’s about how far you can advance others," she said.
"If you’re not passing on what you’ve learned and experienced to those you lead, you’re not setting yourself up for lasting success. Leaders are meant to serve others."
Olukoju also expressed her preparedness to take on the responsibility and work hard, regardless of her location.
"Thank God I have good health and stamina. I’m ready to contribute positively to the growth of sports in Nigeria, especially women in sports. Let me remind you that I have always answered the call to serve Nigeria, no matter where I lived at the time. I am ready to serve again in this new capacity, and distance will never stand in the way."
With her election, Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju is set to be a powerful voice on the AFN board representing women, championing development, and shaping a stronger future for Nigerian athletics.
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