In a significant move to bolster its leadership and advance the nation’s athletics landscape, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has announced the appointment of Gabriel Okon as its new Technical Director and head of the Technical Committee.
The decision was made during the AFN’s inaugural board meeting held on Friday, June 13, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the organization as it seeks to elevate Nigerian athletics to new heights on both regional and global stages.
Gabriel Okon, a seasoned figure in Nigerian sports, steps into the role previously held by Samuel Onikeku, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a vision for transformative growth. Okon will lead an eight-member Technical Committee tasked with overseeing the strategic and technical development of athletics in Nigeria.
The committee includes notable personalities such as Solomon Aliyu, Samuel Onikeku, Victor Okorie, Oluyomi Oladimeji Sule, Lekan Soetan, Fatima Yusuf, and Prof. Ken Anugweje. This diverse group combines deep expertise, dedication, and a shared commitment to fostering excellence in the sport.
The AFN’s decision to appoint Okon and assemble this robust committee underscores its determination to strengthen its technical framework and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in international athletics.
The committee is expected to drive initiatives that nurture talent, improve training methodologies, and ensure effective participation in global competitions.
With Nigeria’s rich history of producing world-class athletes, the new leadership aims to build on past successes while addressing challenges that have hindered consistent performance.
To support the committee’s work, the AFN Secretariat has pledged comprehensive administrative backing, ensuring seamless execution of its mandates.
The secretariat’s role will be crucial in coordinating logistics, facilitating communication, and providing resources to enable the committee to focus on its core objectives.
Stakeholders in Nigerian athletics have expressed optimism about Okon’s appointment, citing his track record and the caliber of the committee members.
As the AFN embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Okon and his team to deliver results that restore Nigeria’s dominance in African and global athletics.