Nigeria has strengthened its foothold in African athletics administration after Athletics Federation of Nigeria president Tonobok Okowa was elected Senior Vice President of the Confederation of African Athletics.
Okowa secured the position during the CAA Executive Council election, polling 6 votes to defeat South Africa’s Dlamini Dakhele with 4 votes and Bruno Konga with 1 vote. Eleven votes were cast in the contest.
The win is being framed as a recognition of Nigeria’s recent resurgence in the sport, both administratively and on the track. Okowa, who also serves as President of CAA Region 2, has overseen a period where Nigerian athletes have posted stronger showings at continental and global championships.
Officials say the new role will give Nigeria more influence in shaping decisions on competitions, athletes’ welfare, and grassroots development across Africa.
Reactions from the Nigerian athletics community have been swift, with stakeholders describing the outcome as a proud moment and a payoff for years of sustained work in the sport.
The result was announced in a statement signed by Maxwell Kumoye, Chairman of the AFN Media Committee.
