“Other amendments that was upheld by the Congress also include the replacement of the Current AFN logo with a new one, the congress also approved the 2023 Federation’s programme of activities”
By Uzor Odigbo
The Tonobok Okowa-led Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has formerly been recognised by former president Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Gusau in a letter sent to congress on Saturday.
Although, contents of the letter was not made public, its however believed that all court litigations instituted by Gusau against Okowa’s administration may have been withdrawn.
The Congress in a Communique released after its deliberations announced some amendments to the AFN 2017 constitution which was not stated in the Communique, but comments through flash Interviews by congressmen said a major amendment was the splitting of the AFN President’s powers in calling for a general meeting and during emergency, provided they form a quorum.
In the 2017 constitution, the AFN President has sole right to call for a meeting of the whole house. But the constitution amendment and reconsilation committee headed by Alias Gora recommended that the clause be altered to include other members of the AFN Board and was adopted by the congress.
Other amendments that was upheld by the Congress also include the replacement of the Current AFN logo with a new one.
The congress also approved the 2023 Federation’s programme of activities.
New entrant at the congress was the Chairman of Gombe State Athletics Association. Alhaji Dr. Gara Shuaibu Gombe who it was learnt made starling contributions and was immediately appointed into the AFN road race Committee.
The Congress addressed board membership status and tenure extension.
At the end of the Congress, members felt more could have been achieved in the aspect of athletes welfare, Sponsorship drive and Doping and coaches training, they however concluded that the AFN constitution is still a work in progress.
The first AFN Congress was declared open by the AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa and closing prayer was made (virtually) by AFN 2nd Vice President Mrs. Rosa Collins.
In attendance were the AFN 1st vice president Tafida Gadzama, NOC president engr. Habu Gumel, Alias Gora, FEAD rep. and AAC President cum WA vice president Col. Kalkaba (virtually) among other dignitaries.
Highlights of the Congress Communique was signed by AFN Scribe Rita Mosindi