The National Sports Commission (NSC) has congratulated former Nigeria international basketball star and sports administrator, Olumide Oyedeji, on his election as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association (WOA).

 

Oyedeji was elected during the Annual General Meeting of the Association held on Sunday, a milestone that further elevates Nigeria’s standing within the global Olympic and sports governance community. With his emergence, Oyedeji becomes the first African to hold the position of Secretary General of the World Olympians Association.

 

Describing the achievement as well deserved, the NSC noted that Oyedeji’s election reflects his years of dedicated service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the growth of sports and athlete welfare at both national and international levels.

 

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the development represents a proud moment for the country.

 

“Olumide Oyedeji’s election as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association is a proud moment for Nigeria and a clear recognition of his integrity, leadership, and lifelong service to sport and athlete welfare. He has consistently represented our nation with distinction, both on and off the court, and we are confident he will uphold the values of the Olympic movement while flying the Nigerian flag with pride on the global stage,” Olopade stated.

 

Reacting to his election, Oyedeji expressed gratitude to Nigerian sports authorities for their continued support.

 

“I use this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the DG and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission for the support they have continued to render to me and all others who strive to put our country’s name on the world sporting map. I further promise to do my best to uphold the name of our country at all times,” he said.

 

Oyedeji remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated basketball figures. He captained the national team to its first-ever AfroBasket gold medal in Tunisia in 2015 and also won silver medals at the FIBA Africa Nations Cup in 1997, 1999, and 2003. He further led Team Nigeria to its first basketball gold medal at the All Africa Games in Maputo in 2011.

 

Between 2006 and 2016, Oyedeji served as captain of the national basketball team, representing Nigeria at the All Africa Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympic Games.

 

Beyond his playing career, he continues to play a pivotal role in sports administration. He currently serves as President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), Third Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), and Chairman of the Nigeria Athletes Commission, where he remains a strong advocate for athlete development, representation, and welfare.