Kingsley James Awodi has been elected President of the Para Powerlifting Federation as he returned unopposed after securing all 12 votes from the congress.
The election held at the VIP Lounge of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with delegates from across the country in attendance. Patrick Akukeke was also elected unopposed as Vice President.
Delegates described Awodi’s nomination as a reflection of his track record of financial, physical and moral support for the national team. He has been closely linked with the growth of para powerlifting in recent years, with a visible presence at training camps, national trials and international competitions.
Speaking after his election, Awodi thanked the leadership of the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, for providing an enabling environment for the federation.
“We are coming on board to carry everybody along,” Awodi said. “Para powerlifting has given Nigeria so much glory on the world stage, and it is time we build a system that sustains that success.”
He identified youth development and athlete welfare as priorities for his four-year term, noting that many of Nigeria’s medal-winning para power lifters are ageing out of competition.
“We are going to encourage young and upcoming athletes so we can gradually replace the ageing athletes with fresh talent,” he said, adding that the federation would establish more grassroots programmes, training centres and competitions.
