President Bola Tinubu has received praise from former African Handball Player of the Year, Adeyemi George Osawe for abolishing the Ministry of Sports and reviving the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The commission will promote grassroots sports development and enhance the country’s standing in international circles, according to the former international handball player who was the first Nigerian handball player to go professional in Germany.
He lamented the poor performance of Nigeria at the last Olympic Games, adding that sports cannot thrive on a platform where bureaucracy is prioritized.
Adeyemi George Osawe, who played professional handball for different clubs sides in Germany, is of the opinion that Nigeria can still excel internationally in the game of handball as it used to in the 80s and 90s if given better attention.
According to the former National Handball Team winger, Nigeria has many talents in the game, emphasizing that with adequate support, the sky is the beginning for greater heights.
The Ogun State born Osawe, has been an incredible force behind the growth of handball at the grassroots level in Nigeria, especially in the South West.
As the Chairman of Ogun Handball Veterans, he has consistently provided material and financial support to various teams and tournaments, including the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) and events like the Papa Jibowu Handball Competition for Secondary Schools’ in Ogun State, and supporting the organization of Handball Championships across South Western States.
Despite living abroad, Osawe has remained dedicated to ensuring handball continues to thrive in Nigeria. His support extends far and wide, aiding coaches, teams, and associations across the country.