The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has applauded Babajide Akeredolu, President of the Nigeria Flag Football Federation (FFF), for his outstanding contributions to the growth of flag football in the country.
Olopade gave the commendation during a reception held in Abuja to celebrate Nigeria’s historic victory at the inaugural International Federation of American Football (IFAF) African Flag Football Championship, which took place from June 20 to 21 in Cairo, Egypt.
Akeredolu’s financial, moral, and logistical support was crucial in ensuring the successful participation of both the men’s and women’s teams at the championship.
Olopade described Akeredolu’s role as pivotal to Nigeria’s double-gold success, saying:
“The time, money, and energy you invested in these teams clearly demonstrate your deep commitment to Nigerian sports. You have brought a new dimension to the development of flag football, and for this, you deserve a national honour.”
“Your contribution aligns with the vision of the National Sports Commission and the sports development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
In a thrilling men’s final, Nigeria secured gold with a 13–12 victory over host nation Egypt at the packed Club One Stadium in Maadi, Cairo. The final was attended by top dignitaries, including Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Ashraf Sobhi.
The women’s team followed up with a dominant 26–12 win against Morocco, led by two second-half touchdowns from quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello.
With their victories, both Nigerian teams earned automatic qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships.
The championship also marked a landmark moment in the rise of flag football in Africa and globally, as the sport gears up for its Olympic debut in 2028 in Los Angeles.
Tunisia clinched bronze in the men’s category, while Egypt placed third in the women’s division.
Olopade also disclosed that the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) had formally reached out to the National Sports Commission through the Presidency to recognize Akeredolu’s leadership and Nigeria’s exemplary performance at the continental championship.
ADD A COMMENT :