President of FIBA Africa Zone Three, Col. Sam Ahmedu (Rtd), has on behalf of the board congratulated Nigeria’s Olumide Oyedeji on his election as the new Secretary General of the World Olympians Association (WOA), describing the feat as a historic achievement for Nigeria and Africa.
Ahmedu said Oyedeji’s emergence as the first African to hold the position underscores the continent’s growing relevance in global sports governance and commended his commitment to athlete development and welfare.
Oyedeji secured victory after polling 55 votes out of the 106 valid votes cast, representing 51.89 per cent, to defeat Salvador Salguero of El Salvador and Liston Bochette of Puerto Rico.
The former international basketball star succeeds Anthony Ledgard (OLY) of Peru and will serve a four-year term on the WOA Board.
Oyedeji currently serves as President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA) and third Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).
Reacting to his election, Oyedeji pledged to lead with integrity, transparency and inclusiveness, while strengthening collaboration with the International Olympic Committee. Oyedeji is also Vice Chairman of the FIBA Africa Zone Three Development Council.
A former NBA player, Oyedeji was drafted 42nd overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 2000 NBA Draft and he has captained Nigeria’s D’Tigers to major continental successes.
