By OLANREWAJU AKOJEDE

The Nigerian Olympian Association (NOA), on Thursday, announced plans to honour outstanding Nigerian sportsmen and administrators for their contributions to national and Olympic sports.

The announcement was made in a statement by NOA President, Olumide Oyedeji, in Lagos.

Oyedeji said the award ceremony will be part of the 2025 NOA National Summit, set to take place in Abuja.

“It will be an evening of legacy and excellence as NOA hosts a celebration at Zeus Paradise Hotel, Mabushi, Abuja.

He said the event, with the theme: ‘The Labours of Our Heroes Last,’ will honour Olympians, their families, and key figures in Nigerian sports development.

“It will also include discussions on athlete welfare and ways to improve recognition,” Oyedeji added.

Oyedeji said awardees were carefully selected for their impact on Nigeria’s Olympic movement and lasting contributions to sports.

He listed Augustine Eguavoen and Samson Siasia (1988 Olympics), and Olympic medallist, Deji Aliu, (1996, 2000, 2004), among the honourees.

Also to be honoured are Henry Nwosu (1980, 1988), long jumper, Yusuf Alli, (1984, 1988), and Armelia Edet (1972).

Sprinter Samson Oyeledun (1980, 1984), retired boxer and 1972 medallist, Isaac Ikuohria, and handball player, Mary Mkpolulu, (1992), also made the list.

Weightlifter Cosmos Sampson Idioh (1980) is the final athlete on the roll of honourees.

Oyedeji noted that other distinguished contributors to sports and athlete welfare would also be celebrated at the event.

They include Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs; sports journalist, Kunle Solaja; and BRILA FM Chairman, Larry Izamoje.

“These individuals are being recognised for their careers and support for athletes and the Olympic movement in Nigeria,” Oyedeji said. (NAN)