FCT TEEN ATHLETE SHINES AS SYMBOL OF RISING SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

By: Gyang Dakwo

As a sign of the growing success of sports under the FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, a young athlete from the FCT sports department has been honoured for her outstanding performance. The recognition came during this year’s International Day of the Girl Child celebration, where awards were given to exceptional children in different fields.

Thirteen-year-old Omowonuola Danielle Olanrewaju, a student of Aflon Digital Academy in Kuje, received the distinguished award in sports. She represents the Federal Capital Territory in golf and has been winning gold medals in stroke and match play at the National Youth Games since 2023. At the last edition held in Asaba, she won both a gold and a silver medal, further proving her consistency and talent.

The award was presented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in recognition of her remarkable achievements.

Speaking on the honour, the FCT Director of Sports, Luka Istifanus, described Omowonuola as a disciplined and highly committed athlete.

Represented by the Deputy Director of Sports Development, Iyiola Ogundele, Istifanus expressed appreciation to the Minister of Women Affairs for the recognition, saying it would encourage not only the recipient but also other young girls to work hard and believe in their abilities.

He said the achievements of Miss Olanrewaju and other young athletes are the results of the supportive environment created by the FCT Administration under Barr Nyesom Wike and the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud.

In his words, Istifanus said, “Omowonuola’s story shows what can happen when young people are given the right support and guidance. She has remained humble, focused, and eager to improve every day. I believe her achievement will inspire many other girls across the FCT to discover their potential through sports.”

He also praised the Mandate Secretary for Youth and Sports, Lawan Kolo Geidam, and the Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, for their continuous encouragement and backing of sports development in the FCT.