By Aderonke Ojo
Renowned philanthropist and long-time supporter of sports development, Mr. Kingsley James Awodi, has been elected President of the Para Powerlifting Federation of Nigeria, ushering in what stakeholders expect to be a transformative era for the sport.
The election was held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. Awodi secured a unanimous victory, polling all 12 votes cast by delegates to emerge President of the federation. Similarly, Mr. Patrick Akutekwe, M.O.N., was elected Vice President after receiving all 12 votes cast.
Awodi’s emergence reflects the confidence reposed in him by stakeholders, built on his long-standing commitment to the development of para powerlifting in Nigeria. Over the years, he has consistently supported the sport through sponsorship, athlete welfare initiatives, and regular presence at training camps, national trials, and international competitions.
Speaking shortly after his election, the newly elected President expressed gratitude to delegates for the overwhelming mandate and described his election as a call to national service.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence reposed in me to serve as President of the Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation. I congratulate my fellow board members on our election. This is a call to national duty, and I look forward to leading an inclusive board where everyone will be carried along as we work together to move our federation forward.”
Awodi also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for providing an enabling environment for a credible electoral process.
“I sincerely thank the National Sports Commission, under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, for creating the enabling environment that made this election possible. We look forward to working closely with the Commission for the continued growth and success of our sport.”
The new President outlined an ambitious vision centred on athlete development, innovation, inclusiveness, and institutional reforms aimed at sustaining Nigeria’s dominance in international para powerlifting.
According to him, talent discovery and grassroots development will be major priorities of his administration, particularly as some of the country’s celebrated para powerlifters approach the latter stages of their competitive careers.
“Our administration will be deliberate in discovering and developing new talents by organising more Para Open Trials and expanding grassroots programmes across the country. Our goal is to continue producing world-class athletes who will make Nigeria proud on the global stage.”
He further pledged to introduce reforms that will strengthen the federation, improve athlete welfare, and attract greater private sector participation.
“Para powerlifting has given Nigeria tremendous glory internationally. It is now time to build a stronger system that will sustain that success. We are committed to introducing impactful reforms that will positively affect our athletes, strengthen the federation, and inject fresh talents who will continue to fly Nigeria’s flag proudly across the world.”
Awodi also promised a leadership style anchored on transparency, collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
“We are coming on board to carry everybody along. I seek the support of all stakeholders as we work together to drive greater growth and development in para powerlifting in Nigeria.”
With Nigeria’s para powerlifting team remaining one of the country’s most successful sports on the international stage, expectations are high that the new administration will consolidate on past achievements while expanding opportunities for emerging athletes.
The newly elected executive committee is expected to steer the affairs of the federation over the next four years, with a focus on sustainable athlete development, improved support structures, stronger institutional partnerships, and positioning Nigeria for even greater success in future continental, world, and Paralympic competitions.
