By Andrew Abah
Prince Kelvin Erhunwmunse has been re-elected as President of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN) for a third consecutive term, reaffirming his status as a pivotal figure in the development of gymnastics in Nigeria and across Africa.
The election, which took place on Saturday at in Gwarinpa, Abuja, was marked by transparency, peace, and broad participation.
Delegates from 32 of Nigeria’s 37 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), cast their votes under the watchful eyes of observers from the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), international gymnastics bodies, and other key stakeholders.
However, representatives from the National Sports Commission (NSC) were notably absent.
Prince Kelvin won by a unanimous vote, securing all 33 votes cast, while Alhaji Mohammed Abba Inuwa emerged as the new Vice President, polling 32 votes.
Elections for board members representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones were also conducted successfully.
In his acceptance speech, Prince Kelvin expressed deep appreciation to the delegates for their continued trust and support.
“Eight years ago, I made a promise to take Nigerian gymnastics to new heights—from near obscurity to international recognition, including the Olympics. Many doubted it, but today, that vision has been fulfilled,” he said.
Under his leadership, Nigeria became the first West African nation to qualify for gymnastics at the Olympic Games, securing a historic gold medal and placing the country firmly on the continental and global gymnastics map.
“We’ve moved from glory to glory. Now, my focus is on strengthening club development, instilling discipline, and building robust national junior and senior teams capable of competing globally,” he stated.
In a significant move for sports development, the Federation under Prince Kelvin hosted Africa’s first-ever international gymnastics coaching course in Abuja, attracting experts from Russia, Germany, the Netherlands, South Africa, and other nations.
“They came to Nigeria because they believe in what we’re building. This has never happened before on African soil,” he added.
This international recognition has opened doors for Nigeria to receive equipment donations, training opportunities, and institutional partnerships from global gymnastics bodies.
Prince Kelvin acknowledged the challenges around equipment and facility standards but expressed optimism, citing recent engagements with the new leadership at the National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Shuaibu Dikko.
He revealed that 15 states are already being considered to receive acrobatic gymnastics equipment through partnerships facilitated by the recent international course.
The Federation’s aggressive grassroots talent hunt has also borne fruit. In Edo State alone, nearly 700 students were introduced to gymnastics, leading to the creation of over 40 new clubs. Similar programmes in the Northeast uncovered over 300 promising young athletes, many of whom competed in the Youth Games.
“We’re doing this zone by zone next is the Northwest. The goal is to raise 20,000 gymnasts nationwide, and no state will be left behind,” Prince Kelvin noted.
He praised the unity of the GFN board, noting that members have remained committed and harmonious for eight consecutive years—a rare feat in Nigerian sports administration.
Representing the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Secretary General Tunde Popoola commended the federation for conducting a credible and constitutionally backed election.
“What you have done here today is very significant—especially for the young athletes we serve,” Popoola said.
“For many of us, gymnastics is more than a sport. It’s a passion, a calling—almost like a religion. It demands full commitment, and what we witnessed here this morning was a commendable demonstration of that dedication.”
Popoola, however, expressed surprise at the absence of the Dire
Meanwhile, the Electoral Committee of the National Sports Federation has disclosed for the information of all interested aspirants that the nomination form and official timeline for the forthcoming National Sports Federation Elections have been duly approved.
The approved nomination form will be available for collection and submission at the Secretariat of each Federation from 6th September to 11th of September during official working hours.
Aspirants are expected to complete and return the form within the stipulated timeframe.
All stakeholders are enjoined to adhere strictly to the guidelines, as the Electoral Committee remains committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections that will strengthen the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.
REVISED TIMELINES FOR THE NATIONAL SPORTS FEDERATIONS 2025 ELECTIONS
1. Release of Nomination of Forms: 6th September, 2025
2. Deadline for the submission of Nomination Forms: 11th September, 2025
3. Submission of Names of Representatives of all Constituencies, except Zonal Representatives: 11th September, 2025
4. Screening of the Names of Representatives of all Constituencies except Zonal Representatives: 12th and 13th September, 2025
5. Zonal Representative Elections at the Zonal HQRTS: 20th September, 2025
6. Hearing of Petitions and Appeal arising from Zonal Elections: 24th September, 2025
7. Bye-Elections arising from Petitions of the Zonal Elections: 27th September, 2025
8. National Elections at MKO National Stadium: 4th October, 2025
9. Inauguration of National Sports Federation Board: 4th October, 2025
10. Hearing of Petitions and appeal arising from National Elections: 8th October, 2025
11. Bye- Elections arising from Petitions on National Elections (If any) 15th October, 2025