ANFASSC honoured at the Big Sport Dialogue

ANFASSC Honoured at the Big Sport Dialogue

The Authentic Nigeria Football & Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) was honoured at the Big Sport Dialogue held today in Ikoyi. The delegation, led by the ANFASSC National President, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, made a remarkable impression as the supporters band opened the event with an exceptional rendition of the Nigerian National Anthem.

The event hosted some of Nigeria’s most influential sports figures, including Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC); Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the NSC; Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, Director-General, National Institute of Sports; Mike Itemuagbor, veteran sports marketing expert; Igoche Mark, leading basketball promoter; Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, seasoned journalist; Rufai Oseni, Arise TV host; Amaju Pinnick, former NFF President; Barr. Chris Green, Rivers State Sports Commissioner; Aisha Falode, respected sportscaster and NFF board member; Steve Oshio; Abubakar Lawal; Bashire Are; Dr. Reuben Abati, respected journalist; and Osaze Ebueku, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee.

A key part of the conversation emphasized the growing role of women in sports. Speakers highlighted that women continue to give more visibility and credibility to the industry, and the future of sports will reflect even greater contributions from women. Calls were made for increased female representation, with the proposal of a 35% inclusion policy in sports leadership and participation. It was also noted that the NSC and NFF must work together to restore journalists to their rightful roles within the sports ecosystem.

One of the standout moments of the event came when the ANFASSC President, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, asked former NFF President and CAF Vice President, Amaju Pinnick, a question that echoed the thoughts of many Nigerians: What impact has his position at CAF made on Nigerian sports as a whole?

Throughout the dialogue, participants reaffirmed their confidence in the leadership of the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade. Attendees described their partnership as a powerful and promising combination with the potential to reshape the Nigerian sports industry. However, there was also a reminder that without collective support and proper implementation of their ideas, even this exceptional team could face challenges in driving the transformative changes the sector needs.

ANFASSC’s performance at the event further underscored the importance of supporters in Nigerian sports, promoting culture, chants, and songs that energize stadiums and uplift the spirit of the game.