By Victor Okoye

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, for honouring Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Ambassador of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Odegbami, a Nigerian football legend, was on Tuesday appointed by Abiodun, as the first-ever ‘Grand Sports Ambassador’ in the history of the state.

The role comes with a simple but challenging mandate – to supervise the evolution of a Sports Eco-system in Ogun, plus a Night-Economy during and beyond the upcoming 2025 Gateway Games.

“This is to actualise the vision of the government to put up (for the second time) the best and biggest multi-sports event in Africa (after the All-African Games).

“This will set new standards in harvesting the social, cultural and economic benefits that come with doing so,’’ he said.

Runsewe emphasised the significance of acknowledging and celebrating Nigerian sports heroes, both past and present.

He told NAN on Wednesday in Abuja that by appointing Odegbami as the Grand Ambassador, the governor had set a precedent for recognising national heroes while they were alive.

“I want to sincerely commend the governor for this initiative, which has indeed opened a new chapter in celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heroes, while they are still alive.

“Honouring sports heroes while they’re still alive allows them to appreciate the recognition and enables future generations to learn from their experiences.

“Celebrating sports achievements can foster a culture of excellence, driving sports development, inspiring young athletes, highlights the importance of sports in Nigerian culture, promoting national pride and identity,” he said.

The NGF boss noted that the governor was an administrator, who was very much concerned about the growth and development of sports at the grassroots.

He added that by honouring Odegbami, Gov. Abiodun had demonstrated a commitment to promoting sports development and celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

NAN reports that Odegbami is a renowned Nigerian footballer, who played for Shooting Stars and the Super Eagles, earning the nickname: “Mathematical” for his calculated shots and speed on the right wing.

He won the Nigerian Premier League with Shooting Stars in 1976, 1980, and 1983, and was part of the 1980 AFCON-winning team, scoring crucial goals in the tournament.

After retiring, Odegbami became a successful writer, publisher, television and radio producer, and sports administrator, founding Nigeria’s first wholly private sports show on television.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joe Idika