Kola Oredipe, founder of the Samkey Athletics Club, has appealed to the thletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).for support in his bid to represent the South-South zone on the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
Oredipe, who also serves as the Director-General of New Media to the Bayelsa State Government, made the appeal on Saturday while addressing journalists in Abeokuta.
He noted that his aspiration to serve as South-South zonal representative on the AFN board requires the backing of SWAN to ensure a successful outcome.
Highlighting his long-standing affiliation with the association, Oredipe described SWAN as his primary constituency and emphasised the need for its members to help publicise his credentials and vision across the country and beyond.
“I am contesting for this position to bring my experience to bear on the development of athletics in the South-South,” he stated.
“I’m offering innovation, inclusivity, and grassroots-driven development. I believe that regular competitions in the region will aid in identifying, nurturing, and developing young talent.”
In response, SWAN National President Benjamin Isaiah expressed the association’s full support for Oredipe, commending him for taking the bold step into sports administration.
Isaiah described Oredipe’s move as an inspiration to journalists nationwide and pledged SWAN’s backing in his bid for the AFN position.
“Your decision to venture into sports politics is commendable and will serve as motivation for other journalists,” he said.
He further stated that the association would now prioritise ensuring representation on the boards of all sports federations to safeguard its interests.
He also stressed that such representation should go beyond assigning media officer roles, to ensure meaningful participation in sports governance.
