Fresh Leadership For Nigeria's Athletics Coaches As Adebote Emerges President

Fresh Leadership For Nigeria's Athletics Coaches As Adebote Emerges President

By Niyi Busari 

Olalekan Adebote has been elected president of the Athletics Coaches Association of Nigeria (ACAN) following a closely contested virtual election involving coaches from across the country, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Adebote, widely known as D’Victors, secured 51 votes to defeat Michael Monyei, who garnered 31 votes.

In the vice-presidential election, United States-based coach Pat Itanyi emerged unopposed, receiving 76 affirmative votes, with six respondents voting against her candidacy.

Adebote succeeds Solomon Aliyu, a board member of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and current national team coach, whose tenure has concluded.

In his acceptance speech, Adebote expressed appreciation to members of the association and emphasised the need for unity among coaches nationwide.

“I am deeply humbled and sincerely grateful for the confidence you have placed in me,” he said, noting that the victory reflected a shared commitment to advancing the coaching profession and athlete development in Nigeria.

He urged stakeholders to move beyond the electoral process and focus on collective progress.

“The election is over, and the real work now begins. This is the moment for all coaches across every state and region to stand together in unity as one family with a shared vision for the advancement of athletics in Nigeria,” Adebote stated.

He added that his administration would prioritise strengthening the voice of coaches, expanding opportunities for athletes, and building a more structured and respected association.

The new leadership assumes office at a time when stakeholders are increasingly calling for improved organisation, collaboration, and long-term development within Nigeria’s athletics ecosystem.