Olumide Oyedeji Makes History as First African Elected Secretary General of World Olympians Association
Nigeria has recorded another major milestone on the global sports stage as former D’Tigers captain and sports administrator, Olumide Oyedeji, has been elected Secretary General of the World Olympians Association (WOA)—becoming the first African ever to hold the prestigious position.
Oyedeji was elected during the Annual General Meeting of the World Olympians Association, a development widely celebrated as a significant boost to Nigeria’s visibility and influence in global sports governance.
Nigeria Celebrates a Global Sporting Milestone
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has formally congratulated Oyedeji, describing his election as a well-earned recognition of decades of service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to athlete welfare.
In a statement, the Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, hailed the achievement as a proud moment for the nation:
“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.”
According to the NSC, Oyedeji’s emergence at the WOA reinforces Nigeria’s growing role in shaping Olympic values, athlete representation, and international sports policy.
Oyedeji: A Career Built on Leadership and Legacy
Reacting to his election, Oyedeji expressed gratitude to Nigerian sports authorities and reaffirmed his commitment to national pride:
“I sincerely appreciate the continued support from the leadership of the National Sports Commission. I promise to always uphold the name of Nigeria and represent our country with honour on the global stage.”
Oyedeji’s election is widely seen as the culmination of a career defined by leadership, resilience, and historic achievements.
Olumide Oyedeji
A Basketball Icon with a Golden Record
One of Nigeria’s most celebrated basketball figures, Oyedeji:
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Led D’Tigers to their first-ever AfroBasket gold medal in Tunisia (2015)
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Won three silver medals at the FIBA Africa Nations Cup (1997, 1999, 2003)
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Captained Nigeria to its first All Africa Games basketball gold in Maputo (2011)
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Served as Team Nigeria captain from 2006 to 2016, featuring in the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and All Africa Games
Influence Beyond the Court
Beyond his playing days, Oyedeji remains deeply involved in sports administration. He currently serves as:
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President, Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA)
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3rd Vice President, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC)
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Chairman, Nigeria Athletes Commission
Through these roles, he has become a leading advocate for athlete rights, development, and governance reforms. Veteran sports administrator Retired Colonel Sam Ahmedu has also expressed confidence that Oyedeji can play a stabilising and reform-driven role in Nigerian basketball, as stakeholders work to resolve long-standing administrative challenges.
A Win for Africa and the Olympic Movement
Oyedeji’s election as WOA Secretary General is not just a personal triumph—it is a symbolic breakthrough for Africa, signaling increased inclusion of African voices in global Olympic decision-making and athlete advocacy.
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