By Andrew ABAH
As the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) prepares for its all-important elections slated for Thursday, 12th June 2025, it is imperative that all stakeholders concerned uphold their responsibility to ensure that the process holds as scheduled.
Recent suggestions from certain quarters proposing a postponement are not only ill-advised but threaten to cast a shadow over Nigeria’s commitment to credible governance in sports.
The AFN election is not a mere domestic affair. The world is watching, and so are key international athletics governing bodies like World Athletics and the Confederation of African Athletics.
These institutions are keen to see how transparent, credible, and timely Nigeria’s internal processes can be, especially in light of past controversies that have sometimes stained the image of the Federation. To postpone the election now, without justifiable cause, risks further reputational damage and may invite unnecessary scrutiny or even sanctions.
Moreover, considerable resources both financial and logistical have already been invested to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections. These include arrangements for venue, security, independent observers, accreditation of delegates, and media coverage. A postponement at this late stage would not only incur additional costs but would represent a gross mismanagement of limited funds.
Equally important is the human capital already mobilized for this exercise. Officials, electoral committee members, support staff, and delegates from various states have adjusted schedules, made travel plans, and committed their time to this event. Delaying the process without compelling reason would be a disrespect to their commitment and could demoralize those within the system who are striving to uphold due process.
Furthermore, any disruption to the electoral timeline could affect Nigeria’s representation in upcoming international competitions. A stable and functional federation is a prerequisite for effective planning, athlete preparation, and engagement with global athletics stakeholders. Leadership uncertainty fueled by election postponement could hinder Nigeria’s participation or influence at global forums where critical decisions affecting our athletes are made.
The AFN elections are a litmus test of our commitment to fairness, accountability, and institutional integrity. All concerned from the National sports commission to delegates and federation members must resist attempts to politicize or derail the process. The timing of the elections was agreed upon through a democratic and consultative process, and altering that agreement now would be a betrayal of trust.
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In the end, credibility is not just built by words but by actions. Let the AFN elections hold as scheduled on 12 June 2025. Let them be free, fair, and devoid of manipulation. Let Nigeria show the world that we are capable of managing our sports affairs with maturity, discipline, and transparency.
