By By Micheal Chukwuebuka
THE National Sports Commission (NSC) has rewarded outstanding Ogun State athlete Miss Afsoh Majekodunmi with a cash prize of three million naira, recognising her stellar achievements on the track throughout 2025.
The Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, presented the award during a public ceremony held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Thursday.
Olopade explained that the reward forms part of a commission-wide initiative to appreciate and motivate young Nigerian athletes who have brought honour to the nation through their performances in international competitions.
Majekodunmi, an SS3 student of Abeokuta Grammar School, distinguished herself last year by excelling at the National Sports Festival, delivering an impressive showing at the African Athletics Championship (CAA), and clinching a gold medal at the African Youth Games in Angola.
According to the Director General, the gesture aligns with a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that outstanding athletes, particularly those emerging from the grassroots, should be duly recognised and supported.
Olopade disclosed that the commission has embarked on a nationwide tour to appreciate athletes who contributed to Nigeria’s success across various competitions. He revealed that between 30 and 35 young athletes who excelled in the past year would benefit from the scheme.
Rather than focusing solely on large cash handouts to underage competitors, the NSC would prioritise support for their education, training, and overall welfare, including assistance for their coaches.
The initiative, he said, is designed to inspire a new generation of Nigerian talents to pursue excellence in sport, reassuring them that their efforts are valued by the nation.
Partnership Call
Also speaking at the event, the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the reward system for young local athletes. He said the cash prize would serve as a powerful motivator for other talented youngsters at the grassroots.
Isiaka used the occasion to call for a robust partnership between Ogun State and the National Sports Commission to further sports development in the region.
‘This Will Boost My Education and Performance’
An emotional Majekodunmi thanked the commission for the gesture, assuring that the financial boost would enhance both her athletic performance and her education. She promised a resounding outing at the Youth Olympic Games scheduled to take place in Senegal later this year.
Majekodunmi previously won two gold medals at the African Athletics Championship held in Abeokuta, as well as two gold medals in the 400m at the African Youth Games in Angola.
What's your reaction?
