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Vice President of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria, Omowunmi Olalere, has called for stronger commitment to the development of gymnastics and greater opportunities for athletes and women seeking leadership roles in the sport.
Olalere said her involvement in gymnastics began as part of her effort to contribute to youth development. She explained that her interest grew after seeing the benefits the sport could provide children, including discipline, confidence, concentration and courage.
She also recounted her experience in the federation’s leadership contest, saying she first sought the presidency in 2021 but lost the election. Rather than withdraw from the sport, she said the experience encouraged her to learn more about its administration and increase her support for athletes and gymnastics programmes.
According to her, her subsequent attempt to contest the presidency in 2025 became complicated by disagreements surrounding the federation’s electoral process. She questioned changes to the federation’s constitution and the circumstances surrounding the election, arguing that stakeholders should be given a transparent opportunity to choose their leaders.
Olalere further said her experience raised concerns about the participation of women in sports leadership. She maintained that women should be allowed to contest for positions based on their ability and support from stakeholders rather than being restricted to supporting roles.
Although she eventually accepted the position of First Vice President in the interest of peace, Olalere said her commitment to gymnastics had not changed. She stressed that her interest was bigger than holding office, insisting that the sport needed stable leadership, proper administration and sustained investment to give young athletes room to develop.
She urged stakeholders to focus on the athletes and children who represent the future of gymnastics in Nigeria, saying the sport has significant potential if given the necessary support.
