The growing push for gender inclusion in sports governance gained further momentum as the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), in partnership with Olympic Solidarity, concluded a three-day advanced gender-inclusive governance course in Abuja.
Held from March 24 to 26, 2026, at the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) secretariat, the programme brought together 52 women—comprising former elite athletes and current board members of various national sports federations—for intensive capacity-building.
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According to a statement by NOC Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya, 47 participants attended physically, while five joined virtually, underscoring the growing interest in female leadership development within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.
The initiative is aimed at addressing longstanding barriers to women’s participation in sports administration by equipping participants with globally recognised governance frameworks aligned with International Olympic Committee (IOC) standards.
Speaking during the programme, NOC President, Habu Ahmed Gumel, emphasised that the future of Nigerian sports depends on inclusive and competent leadership.
He noted that beyond increasing female representation, there is a need to ensure women are equipped with the technical knowledge, strategic insight, and confidence required to function effectively in decision-making roles.
“Many of these women bring invaluable experience from their respective sporting careers, but structured administrative training is essential for strengthening governance, improving compliance, and ensuring sustainable development,” Gumel said.
The curriculum, delivered by a team of seasoned experts, covered key areas including governance reform, financial oversight, organisational accountability, ethical leadership, safeguarding, and the use of digital tools in policy implementation.
Lead facilitators included IOC-certified National Course Director, Dr. (Mrs) Esther Oluwatoyin Aluko; NOC Administrative Secretary, Mr. Nweri Emmanuel; and Project Officer, Mrs. Deborah Ijeoma Chidobi.
Dr. Aluko challenged participants to go beyond boardroom participation and embrace mentorship roles, urging them to replicate the knowledge gained across their respective federations and states.
“This responsibility extends beyond personal advancement. You must become catalysts for change and help build a pipeline of future female leaders in sports,” she said.
Beyond classroom sessions, the programme also served as a strategic networking platform, fostering collaboration among women leaders with a shared vision of influencing institutional reforms.
Participants expressed optimism about the impact of the training on their careers and the broader sports landscape.
Retired Air Commodore Rahonatu Garba said the programme provided deeper insight into governance structures and leadership responsibilities.
“I am glad to have participated. It has broadened my understanding of sports administration and leadership,” she noted.
Similarly, Edith Ahum, a handball referee and former player, described the course as comprehensive, noting that it addressed critical areas such as administration, logistics, and finance.
Uche Tobechukwu, a football journalist, said the initiative represents a significant step towards promoting female excellence in sports governance.
As the programme concluded, Gumel presented certificates to participants, reinforcing the NOC’s commitment to building a more inclusive and professional sports administration system.
The initiative signals a broader shift in Nigerian sports, where empowering women is increasingly seen not as an option, but as a strategic necessity for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
