Legal practitioner Ize Matebese secures victory at the Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretariat in Lagos.
A new era has officially begun for the Nigeria Triathlon Union following the election of Ize Matebese as the new president during an elective congress held at the Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretariat in Lagos on Wednesday.
Matebese secured 16 votes to emerge as the first woman to lead the national sports body in twenty years, succeeding the immediate past president, Prince Wale Oladunjoye, and following the path of founding president Dr Lanre Glover.
The election process was overseen by an electoral committee led by Babatunde Fatayi-Williams, with the new leadership aiming to raise the profile of the sport, according to information published by Punch Sports.
Leadership Background and Previous Roles
The newly elected president brings extensive administrative experience to her new position within the national sports federation. She previously served as the first vice-president, treasurer-general, and legal adviser.
In addition to her national duties, Matebese also completed two terms serving on the Legal Committee of World Triathlon, establishing a strong international profile within the global sporting community.
Vision for National Tournaments and Youth Development
In her acceptance speech, the newly elected president emphasized the need to increase public visibility for the sport through regular domestic competitions and grassroots programs.
She noted that while athletes have previously competed in international events, they have yet to reach the Olympic stage, prompting a strategic shift toward discovering and supporting talented young athletes across the country.
New Executive Board Members
The newly constituted board features several experienced sports administrators dedicated to advancing the federation over the coming years.
- Abiona Babarinde assumed office as the first vice president.
- Olukayode Oguntayo was elected as the second vice president.
- Priscilla Iroaganachi took on the role of secretary general.
- Raliat Abdulsalam joined as deputy secretary general, while Modupeola Ofonedu was appointed treasurer.
History of the Nigeria Triathlon Union
Founded in November 2006 by sports administrators including Dr Lanre Glover, the federation governs swimming, cycling, and running disciplines nationwide.
The organization gained official admission to the International Triathlon Union in February 2007 and later secured full membership within the Nigeria Olympic Committee in May 2007.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new president of the Nigeria Triathlon Union?
Ize Matebese was elected as the new president of the Nigeria Triathlon Union during the elective congress held at the Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretariat in Lagos.
When was Ize Matebese elected?
She was elected on Wednesday at the Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretariat inside the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, securing 16 votes.
Who did Ize Matebese succeed?
She succeeded Prince Wale Oladunjoye, who served as the immediate past president of the national sports federation.
What are the main sports included in triathlon?
Triathlon is a multi-sport competition that combines swimming, cycling, and running, and has been an official Olympic event since the 2000 Sydney Games.
