Okowa Retains Presidency in Clean Sweep
By IDNN Sports Desk
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Dr. Nneka Anibeze and Tonobok Okowa after the AFN Congress at MKO Abiola Stadium, where sweeping leadership changes were confirmed.
ABUJA, NIGERIA – June 13, 2025 | IDNN Athletics & Olympic Sports Desk
Veteran sports journalist Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze has been announced as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), as incumbent president Tonobok Okowa secured re-election for another four-year term in a congress held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
 Okowa Wins Without Opposition
Okowa’s re-election came without a challenger, cementing his second term in office. Known for steering Nigerian athletics through challenging periods including pandemic-era disruptions, his continuation suggests a commitment to administrative stability ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games and 2028 Olympics.
Shortly after taking his oath, Okowa moved swiftly to announce a refreshed executive team.
New Era: Nneka Anibeze Becomes CEO
Among the appointments was the high-profile naming of Dr. Nneka Anibeze as AFN CEO. A former media aide to ex-Minister of Sports Solomon Dalung, Anibeze is also a top broadcast executive and seasoned athletics advocate.
Her appointment has been hailed by industry insiders as a win for professionalism, media transparency, and gender inclusivity in Nigerian sports administration.
Other Key Appointments
Okowa’s new board also includes:
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Dr. Samuel Kolawole Oredipe – Auditor
(Vice-Chairman of Bayelsa Athletics Association and founder of Samkay Athletics Club) -
Bamidele Edokpaye – Legal Adviser
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Babajide Odedeji – Safeguarding Officer
Dr. Oredipe, a former middle-distance athlete, also serves as Director-General of New Media to the Bayelsa State Governor, underscoring a growing blend of media and sports administration.
 What It Means Going Forward
With Dr. Anibeze and other new appointees, Okowa’s second term appears focused on strategic governance, compliance, and athlete protection. Many observers see this leadership mix as capable of fixing long-standing internal rifts and preparing Nigeria for stronger continental and global representation in athletics.
 What’s Next for Nigerian Athletics
With key meets coming up — including qualifiers for the African Championships and World Athletics U20 events — the AFN’s new board will be tested almost immediately. Stakeholders are now watching to see how these leadership decisions translate to athlete welfare, doping regulation, and grassroots investment.
