Awodi emerges Para Powerlifting Federation President

Posted : 03 July 2026

Philanthropist Kingsley James Awodi has been elected President of the Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation, beginning what stakeholders believe will be a new era for the sport in the country.

The election was held at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with delegates from across the country participating in the congress.

Awodi was elected unopposed after securing all 12 votes cast, a unanimous endorsement that delegates attributed to his long-standing financial, physical, and moral support for Nigeria's para powerlifting athletes.

The entrepreneur has been actively involved in the sport in recent years, providing sponsorship and attending training camps, national trials, and international competitions to encourage athletes.

His sustained commitment earned him the confidence of delegates to lead the federation.

He will serve a four-year term alongside Patrick Akukeke, M.O.N., who was also elected unopposed as Vice President.

The new executive committee is expected to be inaugurated later today, Thursday.

Speaking after his election, Awodi expressed appreciation to the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and pledged to run an administration anchored on inclusion, innovation, and accountability.

"I want to appreciate the leadership of the NSC under Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade for giving us an enabling environment to thrive.

"We are coming on board to carry everybody along. 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."

Awodi also identified youth development and athlete welfare as major priorities of his administration, stressing the need to prepare the next generation of champions as many of the country's established para powerlifters approach the latter stages of their careers.

"We are going to encourage young and upcoming athletes so we can gradually replace the aging athletes with fresh talent.

"We will create more grassroots programmes, training centres, and competitions that will give young lifters a clear pathway to the national team."

With his business background and passion for para sports, Awodi is expected to pursue stronger private sector partnerships to improve funding, athlete welfare, and grassroots development.

His election marks the beginning of a new chapter for the federation as it seeks to consolidate Nigeria's dominance in para powerlifting and position the national team for sustained success on the continental and global stage throughout the next Olympic cycle.

The new leadership signals a focused approach toward securing corporate sponsorships and elevating the profile of para sports across the nation. By prioritizing grassroots scouting and institutional transparency, the executive committee aims to solidify the country's podium finish prospects. Stakeholders remain optimistic that Awodi's tenure will deliver lasting structural reforms and renewed motivation for the athletes.

Awodi emerges Para Powerlifting Federation President

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