The executive chairman of Nigeria’s Federal Character Commission (FCC), Ayo Omidiran, has backed plans to boost university sports and youth development across the country following a high-level visit from her alma mater.
Mrs. Omidiran, a former federal lawmaker and prominent sports administrator, pledged her support on Thursday during a meeting in Abuja with management from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adamu Ahmed.
The visit comes as the university prepares to host the 2028 Nigeria University Games (NUGA) and establish a designated national centre of sports excellence.
Celebrating alumni leadership
Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Omidiran expressed gratitude to the university’s leadership, crediting the institution with laying the foundation for her career in public service.
“I remain immensely proud to be an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University,” she said. “The university shaped my character, broadened my perspective and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service.”
Mrs Omidiran also accepted an invitation to attend the university’s 64th anniversary celebrations scheduled for 4 October 2026.
Strategic sports partnership
Paying tribute to her career, Professor Ahmed highlighted Mrs. Omidiran’s background as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a former member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, and the current secretary of the Nigerian Olympic Committee’s Board of Trustees.
He noted that her extensive experience in sports administration would be vital as the university prepares to host the 2028 games and build a world-class training facility.
“These landmark developments present enormous opportunities for the university to contribute to sports development, talent discovery and youth empowerment,” Professor Ahmed said.
The delegation attending the meeting included senior university officials, key academic heads, and sports directors from the Zaria-based institution.
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