NSC wins IJF support for Judo reforms
By Tosin Omojola
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has backed the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) efforts to resolve governance issues in the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF), endorsing a transparent, fair and inclusive electoral process.
In a letter dated October 9, 2026, and addressed to NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, the IJF acknowledged the dissolution of the NJF board, the appointment of a Caretaker Committee and plans to conduct fresh elections.
Signed by IJF Secretary General, Dr. Lisa Allan, the letter recognised the committee’s mandate to review the NJF Constitution and convene an electoral General Assembly. It also noted the members’ undertaking not to contest in the forthcoming election.
“We welcome the steps being taken to address the governance matters within the NJF and support the efforts to ensure a transparent, fair and inclusive electoral process,” the letter stated.
The NSC constituted the Caretaker Committee to oversee the federation’s administration, amend its constitution in line with IJF requirements, convene an Annual General Meeting to approve the amendments and organise elections for a substantive board.
The committee is chaired by Sheriff Hammad, with Ekuta Catherine Ewa, Sule Musa, Bashir Musa Bassey and Oladipupo Idowu as members. Amayo Ngozi serves as secretary.
The IJF’s response signals international support for the NSC’s efforts to restore stability, strengthen accountability and establish an elected leadership for Nigerian judo.
