Harrison Momoh, a towering figure in Nigerian athletics, passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to the sport. His death, announced last Saturday in Ilorin, Kwara State, has triggered an outpouring of tributes from athletes, officials, and stakeholders who recognized his profound impact on Nigerian track and field. Momoh’s influence extended beyond the track, shaping the lives of numerous athletes he mentored and inspiring generations of coaches and sports enthusiasts.
Momoh’s coaching career spanned decades, coinciding with the golden era of Nigerian athletics. He played a pivotal role in nurturing a multitude of elite athletes who achieved national and international acclaim. His contribution to the sport was not limited to coaching; he also served the Nigerian team at prestigious events such as the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and African Games, showcasing his expertise on the global stage. His commitment to the development of athletics in Nigeria was unwavering, making him a respected figure within the sporting community.
The news of Momoh’s passing was met with profound sadness and disbelief. Taiwo Aladefa, a former African Games 100m hurdles champion and one of the many athletes shaped by Momoh’s tutelage, shared the heartbreaking news. Her tribute, along with that of her twin sister, Kehinde, painted a vivid picture of a coach whose influence transcended the technical aspects of the sport. They described Momoh as a selfless mentor, a father figure, and a beacon of hope whose impact resonated far beyond the track. His dedication, work ethic, and unwavering confidence left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Kehinde Aladefa further elaborated on Momoh’s lasting legacy, highlighting his global recognition within the coaching fraternity. Coaches across the world respected his insights, admired his wisdom, and sought his guidance, making him a truly international figure in athletics. His legacy extended beyond national borders, impacting generations of athletes and coaches from various disciplines. The Aladefa twins vowed to carry his lessons, spirit, and legacy in every facet of their lives, a testament to the profound influence he had on their personal and professional development.
Among the numerous athletes who benefited from Momoh’s tutelage were Olympians like the late Sunday Bada, Olapade Adenekan, Olu Sule, Taiwo and Kehinde Aladefa, Omotayo and Omolade Akinremi, Bisi Afolabi, Airat Bakare, Angela Atede, and Saidat Onauga. These athletes, under Momoh’s guidance, achieved remarkable feats, bringing glory to Nigeria on the international stage. His ability to identify and nurture talent was unparalleled, and his dedication to his athletes was evident in their success.
The outpouring of grief extended beyond the athletic community, with prominent figures from the sports administration paying their respects. Dignitaries such as Hammed Adio, a former captain of the Nigerian Olympic team and renowned sports analyst; Bola Adisa, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission; and Mallam Tunde Kazeem, former Director of Sports and current Technical Director of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, visited the family to offer condolences. The Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Athletics Association, Kayode Afolabi, and other members of the track and field community also paid tribute to the late coach, demonstrating the widespread respect and admiration he commanded within the sporting fraternity. Tonobok Okowa, President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, captured the collective sentiment, remembering Momoh as a humble, patriotic, wise, and passionate coach who dedicated his life to elevating the standards of athletics in Nigeria. Momoh, who hailed from Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, is survived by his wife and two daughters, who will undoubtedly cherish the memories of a man who devoted his life to the sport he loved.
