Renowned basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche Mark, has congratulated former Nigerian international basketball star Olumide Oyedeji on his historic election as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association (WOA).Oyedeji made history by becoming the first African to be elected to the position, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria and the continent in global sports leadership. The election took place recently during the WOA General Assembly, where Oyedeji emerged victorious after a closely contested vote.According to official results, Oyedeji secured 55 votes out of 106 valid votes cast, defeating Salvador Salguero of El Salvador and Liston Bochette of Puerto Rico. His victory underscores growing African representation and influence within international sports governance.
Reacting to the development, Igoche Mark described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria and African sports. In a congratulatory message, he praised Oyedeji’s dedication, leadership, and long-standing commitment to sports development.“Wow! What a proud moment for Nigeria,” Mark said. “I extend my warmest congratulations to Olumide Oyedeji on his historic election as Secretary General of the World Olympians Association. To be the first African to hold this position is a testament to your dedication, passion, and leadership.” Mark noted that Oyedeji’s emergence on the global stage reflects years of hard work and service to sports, both as an athlete and administrator. He expressed confidence that Oyedeji would excel in his new role and continue to project Nigeria positively.“
As you take the helm of this esteemed office, I have no doubt that you will make Nigeria proud,” he added. “Your appointment is a shining example of what can be achieved with perseverance, focus, and determination.” Olumide Oyedeji is a former professional basketball player who enjoyed a successful international career before transitioning into sports administration. He currently serves as President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA) and Third Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC). He is also a member of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) board, representing the South-West zone. His election as WOA Secretary General is widely seen as recognition of his contributions to athlete welfare, Olympic values, and sports development initiatives in Nigeria and beyond. Observers believe his new role will further strengthen Africa’s voice within the global Olympic movement.
Mark also encouraged Oyedeji to continue flying the Nigerian flag high in his new capacity, assuring him of continued support from the Nigerian sports community. He wished him a successful tenure marked by growth and impactful leadership.Oyedeji will serve a four-year term on the WOA board, working alongside President Pernilla Wiberg of Sweden and Treasurer Wei-Tsu Thomas of Chinese Taipei. The World Olympians Association represents Olympians worldwide and promotes Olympic values, athlete welfare, and lifelong engagement in sports.
