The Nigerian Deaf Basketball Association yesterday formally appointed Ambassador Olusegun Abayomi Oyedeji as the coordinator of the association.
Olusegun Abayomi Oyedeji, a well-known sports Deaf man and administrator, is a representative from the South West at the Nigeria Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF).
Several nominations were made, including Michael Samuel, Matthew Agere, GodPower Eriemo, Obinna Nwofor , Emmwen Gladys, Adeola Alo, and Lanre Ogunbote.
Several Sports Dignitaries witnessed the appointment event, including Hon. Uzman, former president of Nigeria Deaf Basketball, and Mr Amuda Yusuf and Mr Lukman, the Secretary General of the NDSF Board.
As a Sports person with consummate professional experience on and off the field, the group expressed their confidence in the quality of Ambassador Olusegun Abayomi Oyedeji, adding that they do not doubt that Ambassador Olusegun Abayomi Oyedeji will bring innovation, organization, and contagious energy to the role.
His commitment to fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love for physical activity will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the entire sports community in Oyo State.
Mr Amuda Yusuf, in his address, emphasized the importance of cooperation with the new coordinator, reminding players to be fully committed and dedicated to the team and its objectives.
He encouraged them to work closely with Olusegun Abayomi, the newly-appointed coordinator. According to him, a committed team is more likely to succeed, and sports leaders and coordinators appreciate players who consistently give their best and demonstrate cooperative spirit.
He stated that the World Deaf Basketball in Africa and the International Deaf are coming up in the years 2024 and 2025 respectively, encouraging the body to make adequate preparations for these events.
Hon Uzman, the Former President of Nigeria Deaf Basketball expressed his delight at the appointment of Ambassador Olusegun Abayomi Oyedeji.
He stated that although it was sad to see the dropping of Nigeria Deaf Basketball, it is wonderful to have Amb Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi come on board to help Nigeria Deaf Basketball to develop its capacity for future Sporting events.
He encouraged Team Nigeria Deaf Basketball to always cooperate with him and work together for the development of the association.
Hon Uwar Isah announced the need for financial support and sponsorship to help Team Deaf Basketball at this critical time when there is an addition to leadership. Amb Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi needs all the support necessary to take Nigeria’s Deaf Basketball to a new height.
Ambassador Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi expressed his appreciation to Team Nigeria Deaf Basketball Association including Hon Uzman, former President of Nigeria Deaf Basketball and Mr Yusfu for the support and encouragement and promised to cooperate with them and deliver exceptionally. The new appointee also encouraged Team Nigeria Deaf Basketball to think beyond the shores of Nigeria by acquiring international passports because of the various international Deaf Basketball events coming up this year.
He noted that the 2024 DIBF U21 Basketball World Championships will be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from 17 to 27 July 2024.
In a crucial meeting held on Friday, 12th January 2024, Amb. Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi nominated Hon Umar Isah as Acting Secretary General of Nigeria Deaf Basketball. Team Nigeria Deaf Basketball Association agreed to work together with hearing (non disabled) Coach Cat who was nominated as Coach Nigeria Deaf Basketball Association.
Amb Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi stated that there is a need for advocacy for the Grassroots Sports Foundation under the Founder, Dr Bob Olukoya and Amb Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi who is a Member and Representative of People with Disabilities for advocacy for the Grassroots Sports Foundation
