- What’s Happening: AFN zonal elections are underway.
- Where: South-West and South-South today, North and South-East tomorrow.
- Why It Matters: Strengthening athletics governance across Nigeria.
- Key Point: Elections staggered for logistical reasons.
- The Promise: Free, fair, and transparent elections.
AFN Zonal Elections: A New Era for Nigerian Athletics?
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is holding its zonal elections across the country, starting today in the South-West and South-South zones. The South-East and Northern zones will follow suit tomorrow. These elections are a big deal because they’re designed to boost the way athletics is run in each of Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Why the Staggered Elections?
Unlike previous elections, the AFN isn’t holding all the zonal elections on the same day. According to a statement from AFN Secretary, Israel Inwang, the Southern zones – South-West (Ibadan), South-South (Benin), and initially the South-East (Enugu) – were scheduled for today. However, due to a sit-at-home order in the South-East, their election has been moved to tomorrow.
The Northern zones will also hold their elections tomorrow at their respective headquarters. While the AFN hasn’t explicitly stated why the elections are staggered, it’s likely for logistical and security reasons, ensuring each zone can conduct the process smoothly.
Ensuring Fair Play
The AFN Electoral Committee is making big promises. They’ve reaffirmed their commitment to conducting elections that are free, fair, and transparent. This is in line with the 2023 AFN Constitution, Electoral Guidelines, and international best practices. To ensure things run smoothly, all eligible delegates, stakeholders, and aspirants are urged to stick to the AFN electoral guidelines. This means the chairman (or secretary, if the chairman is unavailable) of each state in the zone will be the electorate.
What’s at Stake?
These zonal elections are more than just a formality. They represent a chance to revitalize athletics governance at the grassroots level. By electing capable and dedicated leaders, the AFN hopes to foster a stronger foundation for the sport, nurture talent, and ensure that Nigerian athletes can compete at the highest levels on the global stage.
Looking Ahead
As the elections unfold, all eyes will be on the process to ensure that it lives up to its promise of fairness and transparency. The outcome of these elections will undoubtedly shape the future of Nigerian athletics for years to come.
About The Author
