Gumel Commends RENISA Initiative, Calls for Improved Care for Retired Athletes

Gumel Commends RENISA Initiative, Calls for Improved Care for Retired Athletes

By Niyi Busari 

President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engineer Habu Gumel, has pledged the organisation’s support for the Association of Retired Sports Men and Women in Nigeria (RENISA), stressing that athletes who have represented the country with distinction deserve recognition, respect and adequate welfare after retirement.

Gumel gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from RENISA led by its President and founder, former Nigerian athlete Sunday Adeleye.

Describing RENISA as a timely and important initiative, the NOC president said the association would provide a credible platform through which retired athletes could remain visible and relevant while addressing the welfare challenges faced by many former sportsmen and women across the country.

He commended Adeleye and members of the association’s leadership for their commitment and sacrifice in championing the cause of retired athletes.

“I want to sincerely congratulate you for establishing this very important association,” Gumel said. “There are countless retired athletes across Nigeria, many of whom have made significant contributions to the country but are no longer remembered. This initiative will go a long way in improving their lives and ensuring their legacies are preserved for future generations.”

Gumel noted that many former athletes face difficult circumstances after retirement and expressed optimism that increased awareness and engagement with the private sector would attract support and resources to improve their welfare.

According to him, the recognition of RENISA in the Act establishing the National Sports Commission (NSC) demonstrates government awareness of the association’s role and importance.

“Government institutions, the NOC and other stakeholders will rally around to ensure the association receives the support it needs to positively impact the lives of retired athletes across the country,” he said.

The NOC president further assured RENISA of continuous collaboration, promising that the committee would participate in the association’s programmes and provide assistance within its capacity.

“We will do our best to support the association. Any activity you organise, endeavour to involve us. We are available to assist both locally and internationally, including facilitating introductions to relevant continental sports bodies where necessary,” he added.

Earlier, Adeleye said the visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the NOC, presenting the activities of RENISA and seeking institutional support for the association’s programmes.

He explained that RENISA, which was established in 2019, was created to improve the welfare and quality of life of retired athletes who often face financial and social challenges after their sporting careers.

Adeleye lamented the plight of many former athletes who, despite serving the country with distinction, struggle to meet basic needs, including healthcare and education for their families.

He noted that the association has continued to support vulnerable members while advocating for a more structured welfare system for retired sportsmen and women.

“We recognised that many retired athletes are facing serious challenges. Some who once brought honour to Nigeria have found themselves unable to access basic medical care or adequately support their families after retirement. That reality informed our decision to come together and support one another,” Adeleye said.

He disclosed that RENISA would host its maiden Sports Fiesta in Abuja from September 17 to 26, 2027, featuring competitions in 17 sporting events.

According to him, the event will serve as a platform to promote unity among retired athletes while recognising individuals and organisations that have contributed significantly to sports development in Nigeria.

Adeleye appealed to the NOC for financial and institutional support, describing the committee as a critical partner in the association’s efforts to improve the welfare of former athletes.

“We are partners in progress and are here to complement the efforts of the NOC and the National Sports Commission. We look forward to your guidance, support and collaboration as we work to improve the lives of retired sportsmen and women across Nigeria,” he said.