Unopposed Victory Ushers in Fresh Leadership for Nigeria Rowing Canoe and Sailing Federation
Oru Leonard
The 13-member board of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoe, and Sailing Federation (NRCSF) has officially announced Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi as its new President following a successful election held at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, on Saturday October 4, 2025.
The election saw full participation from 14 board representatives, with all candidates unanimously elected. The process was transparent, inclusive, and ensured that every member’s voice was heard without opposition.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, President-elect, expressed his gratitude and outlined his vision for the Federation.
“Today marks a new era for our Federation. With unwavering commitment and dedication, we shall strive to attain unprecedented heights in rowing, canoeing, and sailing in Nigeria. I am honoured to take on this responsibility and look forward to working with all stakeholders to achieve lasting success.”
Both the President, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, and the Vice President, Mr. Kayode Abdulaziz Olowu, received 13 votes each from the board members, running unopposed. One board member was unavoidably absent during the election.
Zonal and representative positions were also filled as follows:
North Central: Mr. Yunusa Abdulahi
North East: Prince Ayuba Simon
North West: Hajiya Yoman Halima Usman
South South: Sir Wadi Braveman Ereddoye
South West: Mr. Uthman Ola Okunna
South East: Professor Ngozi Ani
NAWIS Representative: Madam Khadijat Abdulrazak
NAPHER-SD Representative: Professor Oyeniyi Patrick
Military/Paramilitary Representative: Commander Umaru Abdulhamid
Technical Representative: Mrs. Olayiwola Fortune
Athletes’ Representative: Mr. Tabiu Adebayo
The newly elected President, along with his Vice President and the entire board, has expressed a strong commitment to building on existing initiatives and driving the Federation to new levels of excellence. Their unanimous election reflects unity, purpose, and a shared vision for sustainable growth and development in Nigeria’s water sports sector.
Mr. Olumide Bamiduro, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, commended the peaceful and transparent conduct of the election, stating:
“Dr. Ogunbiyi’s emergence marks another milestone in the history of the NRCSF. It reinforces the Federation’s position as one of Nigeria’s most progressive sports governing bodies. With renewed vigour and determination, the Federation is poised to embrace new challenges and continue serving Nigerians across all regions.”
The new leadership team has pledged to work tirelessly towards expanding participation, enhancing infrastructure, and elevating Nigeria’s global competitiveness in rowing, canoeing, and sailing.
(NSC Media)
