In a move hailed as a major step forward for athlete protection in Nigeria, Mr. Babajide Odedeji, the Vice Chairman of the Ogun State Athletics Association, has been appointed as the new Safeguarding Officer on the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
His appointment was officially confirmed during the elective Congress of the AFN held in Abuja on Thursday, where Chief Tonobok Okowa was also re-elected as President of the Federation for another term.
Odedeji, a seasoned sports administrator and staunch advocate for athlete welfare, brings a reputation for grassroots development and integrity to the national stage. His new role is being viewed by stakeholders as a strategic effort by the Federation to institutionalize safeguarding measures that protect the rights, dignity, and safety of athletes at all levels.
“This is not just a position—it’s a responsibility,” Odedeji said shortly after the announcement. “As Safeguarding Officer, I will ensure that every athlete, from grassroots to elite, competes in an environment free from abuse, discrimination, or exploitation. Their safety and well-being will always come first.”
A native of Ogun State, Odedeji has long been recognized for his hands-on approach to sports development, particularly in nurturing young talent and pushing for ethical standards within sports administration. His elevation is widely seen as a reward for years of service grounded in athlete-centered leadership.
The AFN, which governs all track and field activities in Nigeria, is entering a new era under Chief Okowa’s continued leadership. With Odedeji now onboard, expectations are high that the Federation will intensify efforts to implement robust safeguarding frameworks and educational programs across the federation’s operations.
Observers say Odedeji’s appointment could not have come at a better time, as global athletics continues to grapple with the challenges of abuse, harassment, and mental health issues among athletes.
“His voice has always been strong on welfare issues, even at the state level,” a member of the Ogun State Athletics Association noted. “Now that he has a seat at the national table, we are confident he’ll make a real difference.”
With the next sporting calendar around the corner, Odedeji is expected to hit the ground running—working alongside national and state bodies to institute best practices that protect athletes and elevate the sport’s integrity across Nigeria.
