By Andrew Abah, Abuja
When the story of sports development in Nigeria is told, the name Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi consistently makes the tale. Known for his passion, vision and unmatched personal investment in sports, these strides have made him a pillar of support for Nigerian athletes, and today, those same qualities position him as the best man to lead the Canoeing Federation as its next president.
For years, purveyor.com.ng recalls, Dr. Ogunbiyi has transcended beyond words to action, putting his resources and influence behind athletes and federations.
He personally sponsored Nigeria’s canoeing team to the World Championship in Canada, setting the tone for his unwavering commitment to the sport. In 2014, he facilitated Mutual Benefit Assurance Plc’s sponsorship of Team Nigeria at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, ensuring athletes had the backing they needed to shine on the global stage. His contributions to canoeing are both historic and transformational.
He purchased 20 canoe and kayak boats, paddles and other vital equipment for the Rowing and Canoeing Federation, empowering athletes with tools to compete internationally.
In 2020, he constructed and delivered the only Federation Boat Club at Jabi Lake, Abuja, an enduring legacy and world-class facility that continues to serve as the heartbeat of canoeing in Nigeria.
Dr. Ogunbiyi’s support cuts across national and international events. From backing Team Nigeria at the Congo African Games to sponsoring athletes at the World Rowing Championship in France (2015) and the African Continental Qualification in South Africa (2016), his name has been the constant factor in Nigeria’s presence at key competitions.
His financial contributions also sustained the 2017 National Youth Games in Ilorin, the Paracanoe Team at the 2018 National Championship, and the 2021 National Championship at Jabi Lake. Most recently, he supported Nigeria at the African Cup for Canoe Sprint (2023) and the African Continental Paris Olympic Qualification, hosted at Jabi Lake, Abuja in November 2023.
Beyond canoeing, Dr. Ogunbiyi has left an indelible mark on Nigerian sports generally. He built an ultra-modern badminton court and has consistently invested in platforms that give young athletes opportunities to excel. His passion for sports is matched only by his determination to see Nigeria compete and win at the highest levels.
The future of canoeing in Nigeria requires a leader with vision, capacity and proven commitment.
Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi has demonstrated all three, time and again. His track record is not just impressive — it is unrivaled. With him as president, Nigeria’s canoeing will not only grow, it will thrive on the continental and global stage.
Dr. Ogunbiyi is not just the right candidate for the job, he is the only candidate whose legacy already proves what the future can look like.
