The article discusses the leadership crisis in the Nigeria Archery Federation, which hampers athletes like Damilola Sholademi from competing internationally. Allegations of electoral manipulations under long-time President Mohammed Abdullahi and neglect of grassroots development are highlighted. World Archery’s intervention signifies the urgency for reform, as stakeholders push for transparency and effective governance.
Damilola Sholademi, a member of the Nigerian National Archery Team and USA Archery Indoor National Champion, faces significant challenges due to the bureaucratic turmoil at the Nigeria Archery Federation (NAFED). Despite winning 14 medals in competitive events, including first place at the USA Archery Indoor National Championship, he cannot represent Nigeria internationally because the country is not in good standing with World Archery.
NAFED’s ongoing leadership crisis, particularly under President Mohammed Abdullahi, who has held his position for nearly ten years, is central to the issues faced by Nigerian archery. Abdullahi’s leadership has been marred by allegations of electoral manipulations, where congresses were set in less accessible locations to control outcomes. He refutes these claims, stating the structure of archery in Nigeria was built from nothing during his tenure, starting in 2016.
The leadership controversy intensified when former NAFED Secretary Olugbenga Boluji highlighted the irregularities in the election processes, asserting that key decisions are made without proper oversight due to the absence of a functional governing board. Allegations suggest delegations were filled with individuals unfamiliar with archery, raising doubts about the legitimacy of recent elections. Despite this, Abdullahi remains adamant that the federation’s development is a priority.
Grassroots development remains critically neglected under Abdullahi, contributing to archery’s limited presence outside Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. Boluji noted efforts to include archery in national sporting events but claims a lack of action from NAFED has left the sport marginalized. Financial constraints further hamper athletes’ participation in international events, making self-funding a necessity for many.
Reacting to the crisis, World Archery announced it would not recognize the results of NAFED’s recent congress due to electoral inconsistencies. The Nigerian Olympic Committee has been called upon to oversee future elections, with World Archery proposing a roadmap to restore order, including a monitored vote of confidence in the current leadership.
NAFED’s meeting on March 10, 2025, is set to discuss the future of the organization, including a confidence vote for Abdullahi. However, skepticism remains about whether the meeting will genuinely address the grievances or simply reinforce existing leadership. Sholademi and others emphasize that the ongoing governance issues threaten their futures in the sport, lacking proper pathways to compete and develop their skills internationally.
In light of all this, Sholademi expressed concern over the potential transparency of the upcoming congress due to the interconnectedness of the leadership and the Olympic Committee. Despite the struggles, he firmly believes in the talent present in Nigeria, stating, “We have the talent. We just need the system to work for us.”
The leadership crisis within the Nigeria Archery Federation poses a significant threat to the growth and international representation of archery in Nigeria. Bureaucratic inefficiencies, allegations of electoral impropriety, and a lack of grassroots development hinder potential achievements in the sport. As stakeholders call for accountability and independent oversight, the futures of talented athletes like Damilola Sholademi remain uncertain without significant reform.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
