The President of the Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF), Babajide Akeredolu, has commended the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, for her outstanding contributions to sports marketing and event management in Nigeria.
Akeredolu made the remarks while attending the Newstap/SWAN 5-Star Awards, where Mrs. Olopade was decorated for her exceptional impact in the sports industry. The colourful ceremony held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos, drew prominent stakeholders from across Nigeria’s sports sector.
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Mrs. Olopade’s recognition reflects the remarkable transformation she has brought to sports event management through her leadership at Nilayo Sports Management Limited, now widely regarded as one of the leading sports management companies in the country.
Under her stewardship, Nilayo Sports Management has successfully organized and managed several major road races and sporting events across Nigeria. These include the globally acclaimed Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, the fast-growing Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Half Marathon, and the newly introduced Yenagoa City International 10KM Race, among other elite road races and sporting initiatives nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Akeredolu described the award as well deserved, noting that Mrs. Olopade’s professionalism, innovation, and dedication have played a significant role in elevating Nigeria’s reputation in international road running while also promoting sports tourism, youth participation, and economic activity within host cities.
“Mrs. Yetunde Olopade has demonstrated remarkable leadership and consistency in sports development. The level of excellence Nilayo Sports Management has achieved over the years is a clear testament to her vision and commitment to the growth of sports in Nigeria,” Akeredolu said.
The Newstap/SWAN 5-Star Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to sports development and promotion in Nigeria.
Other awardees in the category included the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, Comrade Phillip Shaibu, and the Proprietor of Yucateco Boxing Promotions, Omolei Imadu.
Akeredolu also used the opportunity to highlight the growing momentum around the newly inaugurated Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF). He noted that with the support of the National Sports Commission and key stakeholders, the federation is committed to developing the sport from the grassroots level while creating pathways for Nigerian athletes to compete internationally.
According to him, the federation’s leadership is already working on strategic plans that will expand participation in American football across schools, universities, and communities, while also building structures that will position Nigeria as a strong force in the sport globally.
He expressed optimism that, just like road running has gained global recognition through initiatives like the Lagos City Marathon, American football in Nigeria will soon experience rapid growth and international visibility under the newly established federation.
