Awodi Sets Agenda For Grassroots Growth After Federation Election

Awodi Sets Agenda For Grassroots Growth After Federation Election

By BSN Sports 

Philanthropist and sports administrator Kingsley James Awodi has been elected President of the Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation following the federation's elective congress held at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Awodi was elected unopposed after receiving all 12 votes cast by delegates at the congress. Patrick Akukeke, M.O.N., was also elected unopposed as Vice President. Both officials will serve a four-year term, with the new executive expected to be inaugurated following the election.

Delegates cited Awodi's longstanding support for para powerlifting and his involvement in athlete development as key factors behind his emergence. Over the years, he has been associated with sponsorship initiatives and has regularly attended national training camps, trials, and international competitions involving Nigeria's para powerlifting teams.

Speaking after his election, Awodi thanked the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, for creating what he described as an enabling environment for sports administration.

"We are coming on board to carry everybody along," Awodi said. "Para powerlifting has given Nigeria so much glory on the world stage, and it is time we build a system that sustains that success. We will bring innovation to the federation and move beyond the old ways of doing things."

The newly elected president identified youth development and athlete welfare as key priorities of his administration, stressing the need to prepare the next generation of para powerlifters.

"We are going to encourage young and upcoming athletes so we can gradually replace the ageing athletes with fresh talent," he said. "We will create more grassroots programmes, training centres and competitions that will give young lifters a clear pathway to the national team."

Awodi also expressed optimism that stronger collaboration with stakeholders and increased private sector participation would enhance athlete development and strengthen the federation's programmes.

Nigeria's para powerlifting team remains one of the country's most successful sports programmes, consistently winning medals at the Paralympic Games, World Championships and other major international competitions. The new administration is expected to build on those achievements as preparations begin for the next Olympic and Paralympic cycle.