By Andrew Abah, Abuja
Philanthropist, Kingsley James Awodi has been elected as new President of the Para Powerlifting Federation, ushering in what stakeholders say will be a transformative period for the sport in Nigeria.
The election was conducted at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with delegates from across the country in attendance.
Awodi, who has been a consistent supporter of para-athletes over the years, was returned unopposed after securing all 12 votes from the congress.
His nomination was described by delegates as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in him, given his track record of financial, physical and moral support to the national team.
The young and eloquent entrepreneur has been closely linked with the growth of para powerlifting in recent years. Beyond sponsorship, he has been present at training camps, national trials and international competitions, where he provided direct encouragement to athletes.
That visibility and commitment ultimately positioned him as the natural choice to lead the Federation.
He will now steer the affairs of the Federation for the next four years. He will be deputised by Mr. Patrick Akukeke, MON, who was also elected unopposed as Vice President. The new executive was later to be inaugurated same day.
Speaking after his election, Awodi thanked the leadership of the NSC and promised a leadership style built on inclusion, innovation and accountability.
“I want to appreciate the leadership of the NSC under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for giving us enabling environment to thrive.
“We are coming on board to carry everybody along,” he told reporters. “Para Powerlifting has given Nigeria so much glory on the world stage, and it is time we build a system that sustains that success. We will bring innovation to the federation and move beyond the old ways of doing things.”
A key part of his agenda, Awodi said, will be a deliberate focus on youth development and athlete welfare.
He noted that many of Nigeria’s medal-winning para powerlifters are now ageing out of competition and the Federation must act quickly to bridge the gap.
“We are going to encourage young and upcoming athletes so we can gradually replace the aging athletes with fresh talent,” he added. “We will create more grassroots programmes, training centres, and competitions that will give young lifters a clear pathway to the national team.”
Awodi’s business background and passion for the sport could help attract private sector partnerships and improve funding for athletes. With Nigeria’s para powerlifters remaining among the most decorated on the continent, expectations are high that the new administration will consolidate on past achievements and push the sport to new heights.
The Federation enters a new chapter under Awodi focused on athlete development, stronger support structures and repositioning Nigeria’s para powerlifting team for greater global success in the next Olympic cycle.
