In alignment with the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) global initiative to enhance women’s inclusion in sports, the Nigeria Olympic Women Committee has launched the 2nd Edition of its flagship programme: “Annual Seminar for Women Coaches, Administrators and Technical Officers.” The seminar is being held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones led by their chairperson Professor Florence Adeyounju to empower women in sports and unlock new opportunities for female participation.
Each year, the IOC assigns themes to the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) that encourage awareness and equity in sports, particularly for women and girls. While the IOC provides financial support, it also urges national bodies to seek additional funding to sustain productivity and broaden impact.
Engr. Habu Gumel, the NOC president, has consistently championed women’s involvement in sports. He has called on Nigerian women to step into leadership roles often dominated by men, despite the challenges posed by tradition, religion, and marriage-related limitations. Gumel emphasises that women must claim their rightful place in the political and sporting arena.
Today, Nigerian sportswomen are leading the charge in breaking barriers. Across the country, female stakeholders, including coaches, administrators, and technical personnel, are mobilising to protect the girl child and promote sports as a viable and rewarding career path. These women are engaging parents, communities, and institutions to create a supportive environment for girls’ participation, thereby expanding opportunities for education, employment, and global representation.
The rise of women leaders like Kirsty Coventry, current chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, underscores the international commitment to gender equality in sports. Nigeria, known for its passionate sports culture, has seen its female athletes often outperform their male counterparts in international competitions, proving the immense value of their participation.
Women’s visibility and success in sports have transformed perceptions and elevated the status of sports in academic institutions. Once excluded from curricula, sports are now being recognised as a professional discipline, thanks largely to the achievements of Nigerian female athletes. These women are also actively fighting against issues like drug abuse and sexual exploitation, safeguarding the health and careers of future generations.
Plateau state stands out as a model for gender equality in sports, with female leadership across key departments, including a female deputy governor and permanent secretaries. Enugu, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and the FCT are also taking strides in promoting youth and female participation.
In Benue state, Governor Fr. Hyacinth Alia has prioritised sports as a tool for youth development. His administration has renovated stadiums, revitalised the Lobi Stars Football Club, funded athletes participation, and provided transportation to support sporting activities. His inclusive approach has encouraged women to assert their space in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
The growing presence of women in Nigerian sports proves that they are not just participants but vital contributors to national development and global recognition. Their resolve to protect and promote the girl child through sports is reshaping narratives and ensuring a more equitable future.
Fely Mammah N.Abuja (member, Nigeria Olympic Women Committee)