By Bashir Bello, Abuja.
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has reaffirmed the 5th Commission’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion, women empowerment and youth development through strategic partnerships, pledging the Commission’s full support for the Association of Former Female Athletes of Nigeria (AFFAN) in advancing initiatives that foster national unity and equal opportunities.
Hon. Omidiran gave the assurance while receiving the leadership of AFFAN, led by its Vice President, Hajiya Zainab Saleh, during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, where both organisations explored areas of collaboration in sports development, women empowerment, mentorship and national integration.
Commending AFFAN for bringing together women who have represented Nigeria with distinction in sports, the FCC boss urged the Association to establish functional chapters across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to strengthen its national reach and expand its mentorship programmes.
“I have been with AFFAN from its inception, and I am delighted to see how the Association is growing. I encourage you to establish branches in every state because there is no part of Nigeria where you will not find women of quality to drive this noble vision. A truly national outlook will position AFFAN even better to mentor the next generation of female athletes and leaders,” Omidiran said.
The founder of the Girls Play Sports Initiative under the Ayomidiran Foundation, added that the FCC’s Gender and Persons with Disabilities Unit provides a strong institutional platform for collaboration, assuring the Association of her unwavering personal and official support.
“Inclusivity is part of our constitutional mandate, and we already have a platform to work together. Whenever you have programmes, bring me in. I am a woman first, and when I see women doing well, I encourage them and want to be part of their success. The Federal Character Commission will continue to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind,” said the proprietor of defunct Omidiran Babes.
Earlier, AFFAN Vice President Hajiya Zainab Saleh congratulated Omidiran on her appointment as Executive Chairman of the FCC, describing her as an accomplished sports administrator whose commitment to women’s advancement and national development continues to inspire generations.
She also unveiled AFFAN’s vision for a National Girl-Child Sports Development Programme, aimed at discovering young female talents across the country while combining sports with mentorship, education and life skills.
“Our members have proudly represented Nigeria through discipline, excellence and service. Today, they are professionals, mentors and advocates who deserve opportunities to transition into meaningful careers where their experience and leadership can continue to benefit the nation,” said the Chairperson of the Lagos State Karate Association.
“With the support of the Federal Character Commission, this initiative can become a powerful national platform that reflects the principles of equity, representation and inclusion while inspiring the next generation of Nigerian girls,” Saleh added.
