As the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) charts a new course under the renewed leadership of Chief Tonobok Okowa, the appointment of Dr. Samuel Kolawole Oredipe as Auditor marks a strategic move aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability within the Federation.
Dr Oredipe, the current Vice-Chairman of the Bayelsa State Athletics Association and founder of the Samkay Athletics Club, was named to the board shortly after Okowa took his oath of office for a second term in Abuja. A respected voice in athletics development in Nigeria’s South-South region, Oredipe brings both media expertise and grassroots sports experience to his new role.
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A former middle-distance runner turned journalist, Dr Oredipe serves as Assistant Director of News at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria and also doubles as the Director-General of new Media to the Bayelsa State Governor. His diverse background positions him to play a key role in promoting ethical oversight and media transparency within the AFN.
Reacting to his appointment, stakeholders in the athletics community have praised the AFN’s decision, describing Oredipe as a diligent professional whose commitment to youth sports development, especially through the Samkay Athletics Club, is well documented.
Other notable appointments to the AFN board include veteran sports broadcaster Dr. Nneka Nkem Anibieze as Chief Operating Officer, Barrister Bamidele Edokpaye as Legal Adviser, and Mr. Babajide Odedeji as Safeguarding Officer.
With these appointments, the AFN under Okowa’s leadership appears poised to prioritize institutional reforms, athlete welfare, and a renewed media presence ahead of key international competitions.
