AFN Appoints Samuel Onikeku Technical Director

The Sports Secretary of Nigeria Customs Service, Samuel Onikeku has been appointed the Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

In a recent statement signed by the Tony Okowa, the President of a faction of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Onikeku was made the Technical Director after consultation with AFN Board members and other stakeholders in Nigerian athletics family.

Okowa said the new appointee will lead Nigeria athletes to the World Athletics Junior Championship coming up this August in Kenya, and that his experience as a former national athlete is highly needed in the technical department.

Okowa, the Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission said, "I congratulate Samuel Onikeku and urge him to bring his knowledge and expertise to bear on our athletics. I wish him success in the discharge of his duties".

Reacting, the retired athlete promised to bring his wealth of experience into the AFN.

He called on all stakeholders in the athletics family to rally round the Okowa-led board, adding that the welfare of the athletes will be his number one priority.

Onikeku said, "This is a call to service from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria to me. I promise to work with all relevant stakeholders to see that athletics returns to its rightful position in Africa and the world."

"Without the athletes and coaches, there cannot be a federation. That means the welfare of the athletes will be my major priority as Technical Director", he added.

The Nigeria Youth Athletics Team are currently camped at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta state.