By Joy Odor
It was a night of nostalgia and renewed purpose as His Royal Highness Dr. Alhassan Saleh Yaghmoud, District Head of Chanso in Plateau State and a former International Volleyball player, made a passionate case for sustained support for Nigerian Olympians.
Speaking in an interview with journalists at the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA)’s 3rd National Convention held at Zeus Paradise Hotel in Abuja on Thursday, with the themed “The Labours of Our Heroes Past,” Dr. Yaghmoud who reflected on his journey from national athlete to traditional leader, and the significance of the event in reconnecting past and present sports heroes call be a dedicated budget line to support Olympians nationwide.
With a mixture of humility and passion, the Royal Sportsman used the opportunity to “spike and volley” one more message across, urging policymakers and stakeholders to turn symbolic gestures into tangible support for the country’s sporting legends.
“I am delighted to be among a community of former teammates, competitors, and administrators who once wore the national colours with pride,” he said.
“What I’ve witnessed today is more than just a reunion it’s a platform for cross-generational learning, especially for young Olympians stepping into the arena in a digital age far different from what we knew.”
Dr. Yaghmoud, who also served as a Retired Sports Administrator, emphasized the need for continuity and institutional support for initiatives like the NOA summit.
“There should be sustainability. This platform should serve not only as a guide for emerging athletes but also as a reunion space for veterans who have flown the nation’s flag,” he said.
“There is no better honour than giving Olympians this kind of recognition. In fact, I believe there should be a dedicated budget line to support Olympians nationwide.”
As the evening wrapped up, Dr. Yaghmoud’s message resonated with attendees: that the “labours of our heroes past” must not only be remembered but institutionalized for future generations.
Meanwhile, in a vibrant celebration of Nigeria’s sporting heritage, the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA) at its 3rd National Convention rolled out the red carpet for the country’s sports icons and Olympians.
The event marked a grand tribute to the heroes and heroines who have contributed to Nigeria’s Olympic legacy.
The convention followed a three-day national summit and served as a platform to recognise exceptional dedication to the Olympic spirit, national service, and athlete welfare.
NOA President and former Olympic basketball player, Olumide Oyedeji, led the celebrations, calling for continued recognition of sporting legends whose efforts have paved the way for Nigeria’s growth in international sports.
“We must never forget those who laid the foundation of our sporting success. By honouring them, we inspire the younger generation to believe that their efforts will not go unnoticed,” Oyedeji said.
Lifetime achievement awards were presented to a distinguished list of Nigerian Olympians, including:
Samson Siasia, former Super Eagles and Dream Team Coach and 1988 Olympian
Augustine Eguavoen, veteran footballer and coach
Deji Aliu, Olympic sprint medalist (1996, 2000, 2004)
Henry Nwosu, 1980 and 1988 Olympian
Yusuf Alli, celebrated long jumper (1984, 1988)
Armelia Edet, track athlete (1972)
Samson Oyeledun, sprinter (1980, 1984)
Isaac Ikuohria, boxing medalist (1972)
Mary Mkpolulu, handball player (1992)
Cosmos Sampson Idioh, weightlifter (1980)
In addition to athletes, the NOA also honoured individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of Nigerian sports and the Olympic movement. Among the recipients were:
Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service
Kunle Solaja, veteran journalist and publisher of Sports Village Square
Larry Izamoje, Chairman of BRILA Communications PLC
The convention highlighted NOA’s commitment to athlete welfare, legacy building, and developing a sustainable sports ecosystem in Nigeria.
It also reinforced the association’s dedication to preserving the memory and contributions of Nigeria’s Olympic pioneers.
As the summit concluded, stakeholders reiterated the importance of building on the momentum to ensure that Nigerian athletes continue to be celebrated and supported both on and off the field.
