From Grassroots to Global Stage: The Rise of Olushola Gbenga Ogunnowo in Nigerian Football Administration
By Clinton Christopher, Abuja
In the dynamic world of Nigerian football administration, few names reflect consistency, experience, and innovation like Olushola Gbenga Ogunnowo. With decades of hands-on involvement across multiple tiers of the game, Ogunnowo has steadily built a reputation as one of the driving forces behind the growth of grassroots football in Nigeria.
Currently serving as Deputy Director of Sports and Chief Operating Officer of the Nationwide League One (NLO) under the Nigeria Football Federation, Ogunnowo oversees the administration of more than 400 football clubs across the country.
His role places him at the heart of Nigeria’s football development structure, where he coordinates league fixtures, supervises match operations, and drives strategic initiatives aimed at improving the domestic game.
Colleagues describe him as a proactive and detail-oriented leader, known for his ability to manage complex projects and deliver high-profile sporting events that enhance both fan experience and player development.
His leadership style, rooted in discipline and innovation, has seen the introduction of new revenue streams for grassroots clubs, particularly through broadcast rights and sponsorship deals.
Before rising to his current position, Ogunnowo served as Assistant Director of Sports between 2018 and 2021, where he similarly managed the operations of hundreds of clubs while strengthening partnerships and improving league visibility through live streaming and pay-TV arrangements.
His journey within the NFF spans over two decades. Between 2005 and 2013, he played a critical role as Sports Officer and Team Administrator for Nigeria’s U-23 Olympic football team.
During this period, he coordinated technical crews, managed logistics, and oversaw budgeting for both local and international engagements. Notably, he was part of the team that successfully secured a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, one of Nigeria’s proudest football achievements.
Earlier in his career, Ogunnowo served as Head of Friendly Matches, where he redefined the culture of organized exhibition games in Nigeria, encouraging clubs and academies to engage more actively in structured competitions to enhance player performance.
His administrative footprint also extends to major international events, including his involvement in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009, where he served on the Local Organizing Committee and acted as Abuja Venue Marketing Manager.
Beyond administration, Ogunnowo has contributed significantly to capacity building in sports. He is recognized as Nigeria’s first top master trainer for UK Youth Sports under the British Council, and has trained sports administrators across Africa, including in Ghana. He also serves as Country Director for the international “Football for Friendship” initiative, further underscoring his global engagement in sports development.
Academically, Ogunnowo holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Abuja and a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from Olabisi Onabanjo University. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Sports Management and Administration at Lagos State University, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
His professional development is further enriched by certifications in sports law, business administration, and football management from globally recognized bodies, including FIFA and CAF.
A member of both the Nigeria Association of Physical Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance and the African Sport Management Association, Ogunnowo remains deeply connected to the evolution of sports on the continent.
From managing local leagues to contributing to international football projects, his career tells a story of dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the development of the beautiful game in Nigeria.
