Itiako Ikpokpo, a prominent figure in Nigerian sports and the project consultant and co-chairman of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, has expressed his willingness to collaborate with the Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN) board, contingent upon favorable conditions. This statement follows his recent, closely contested election loss to Gabriel Okon for the South-South zone’s representative position on the AFN board. Despite the outcome, Ikpokpo displayed sportsmanship, congratulating Okon and reaffirming his commitment to the advancement of athletics and other sports within the zone and Nigeria as a whole. He emphasized the collaborative nature of sports administration, highlighting the expectation that those elected to the board would work collectively to foster the growth and development of sports across the country.
Ikpokpo’s perspective on the election underscores his understanding of the broader goals of sports administration. He viewed the election not as a personal triumph or defeat, but as a process designed to select individuals capable of contributing to the overall improvement of Nigerian sports. This approach reflects a commitment to the greater good of the sporting community, placing the development of athletes and the advancement of various sports disciplines above personal ambitions. His willingness to serve the AFN in any capacity, provided the leadership and conditions are conducive, further emphasizes his dedication to the growth of athletics in Nigeria. This open-minded approach suggests a potential for valuable contributions to the AFN, even outside a formal board position.
Furthermore, Ikpokpo’s reflection on his first-time candidacy reveals a growth mindset. He acknowledges the valuable experience gained during the election process, viewing it as preparation for future opportunities. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and improvement within the realm of sports administration. He recognizes that the experience gained, irrespective of the election outcome, has equipped him with valuable insights and knowledge that will be beneficial in future endeavors. This perspective underscores his long-term commitment to contributing to the development of sports in Nigeria.
Gabriel Okon, the newly elected representative for the South-South zone, echoed Ikpokpo’s focus on collaboration and development. He emphasized that his victory was a collective win for the entire zone, signifying unity and a shared commitment to progress. Okon stressed the importance of working together with all stakeholders to achieve common goals, highlighting the need for a cohesive approach to sports development. He articulated a vision for the future of athletics in the South-South zone and Nigeria, emphasizing grassroots development as a key strategy for nurturing talent and fostering long-term growth.
Okon’s commitment to grassroots development signifies a strategic focus on building a strong foundation for athletics in the region. By targeting young athletes and providing them with the necessary resources and support, he aims to cultivate a pipeline of talent that will contribute to the future success of Nigerian athletics. This approach recognizes the importance of early intervention and investment in young athletes as a crucial step towards achieving sustainable growth and international competitiveness. Okon’s commendatory remarks towards the delegates and his opponent, Ikpokpo, further reinforced the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect prevalent throughout the election process.
The election, overseen by electoral officer Braveman Wodi, saw Okon emerge victorious with a 4-2 vote against Ikpokpo. Oredipe Kolawole, another contender from Bayelsa, withdrew from the race a few hours before the election. The smooth conduct of the election, despite the competitive nature of the contest, highlights the professionalism and commitment to fair play exhibited by all involved parties. The willingness of both Ikpokpo and Okon to collaborate for the betterment of Nigerian athletics, irrespective of the election outcome, sets a positive precedent for future engagements within the sports administration landscape. This collaborative spirit bodes well for the future of athletics in Nigeria, signaling a potential for unified efforts towards achieving shared goals.
