Veteran Olympians and sports stakeholders have called for structured and sustainable support systems for Nigerian athletes—especially those who have brought glory to the nation on the global stage.
The call was made during the 3rd National Convention of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), held in Abuja. The event, themed “The Labours of Our Heroes Past”, honoured past and present Olympians and emphasised the importance of preserving Nigeria’s sporting legacy through institutional support.
Speaking at the event, Isaac Ikuohria, a bronze medallist in boxing at the 1972 Munich Olympics, expressed deep appreciation for being recognised while still alive but lamented the lack of comprehensive welfare structures for retired athletes.
“I feel very happy because many people receive such awards only after they’ve passed on. But I’m alive, and I’m grateful,” Ikuohria said.
“There are certain things money cannot buy, like the award I received today. We have lost many Olympians due to illness and neglect. The Olympic Games demand great sacrifice. If there was a specific support system for Olympians, it would make a big difference.”
NOA President and former Olympic basketball player, Olumide Oyedeji, stressed the importance of continued recognition for sporting heroes who have raised Nigeria’s international profile. He said, “There’s always room for improvement, but I’m happy we’re celebrating our heroes.
“These Olympians gave their all—sacrificing time, health, and energy for the nation. By honouring them, we inspire the younger generation to believe their efforts will not go unnoticed. We must never forget those who built the foundation of our sporting achievements.”
Oyedeji further advocated for collaboration between the public and private sectors to create a permanent system of recognition and welfare for athletes during and after their careers.
His Royal Highness Dr. Alhassan Saleh Yaghmoud, District Head of Chanso in Plateau State and a former international volleyball player, emphasized the need for sustainability and generational mentorship.
“What I witnessed here today is more than a reunion—it’s a cross-generational platform,” he said. “Today’s athletes operate in a digital world, facing new challenges. They need our guidance. This initiative should be institutionalized. There should be a dedicated budget line to support Olympians nationwide. Recognising their
service to Nigeria is the highest form of honour.”
The convention featured the recognition of several distinguished Olympians including former Super Eagles coach and
1988 Olympic footballer Augustine Eguavoen; prolific striker Samson Siasia; sprint medalist Deji Aliu, who represented Nigeria at the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004 Olympics; and midfield maestro Henry Nwosu, who featured in the 1980 and 1988 Olympic Games.
Also honoured were long jump legend Yusuf Alli (1984, 1988), Armelia Edet (1972), sprinter Samson Oyeledun (1980, 1984), boxer Isaac Ikuohria (1972), handball player Mary Mkpolulu (1992), and weightlifter Cosmos Sampson Idioh (1980).
Beyond the sporting community, the NOA also honoured key figures whose efforts have significantly enhanced athlete welfare and promoted the Olympic movement.
Among them were the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR; veteran journalist and publisher of Sports Village Square, Kunle Solaja; and Larry Izamoje, Chairman of BRILA Communications PLC.
The event concluded with a renewed call for national policy reforms that prioritize the well-being of Nigerian athletes, both in their active years and in retirement.
