The Director General of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has joined the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to decorate the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as the Grand Patron of the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship.
The event which took place at the Presidential Villa, celebrated the First Lady’s relentless support for women’s sports development and her commitment to advancing significant causes in Nigeria and across the continent.
Accepting the honour, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emphasized that women have a rightful place in all spheres of the nation and can occupy that space through hard work and dedication.
The First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s esteemed position in the global sports community, crediting the tireless efforts of female athletes. She encouraged them to mentor and inspire young Nigerian girls with their stories of perseverance and success.
Addressing the female officers in attendance, she remarked, “I can see that out of the four Deputy Comptroller Generals here, three of you are women. And that tells me you have worked, worked, worked, and worked. To be at the top, you must have worked hard. When given a platform, it is not just about you—go on and lift others, encourage them.”
Recognized as a growing pillar of support for women’s sports in Nigeria, Senator Tinubu is expected to further champion female athletes in her role as Grand Patron of the 2025 African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship. The competition will be hosted by Nigeria, with the Customs Service representing the nation.
Presenting the honor, Comptroller General, Adewale Adeniyi acknowledged the First Lady’s unwavering support for female athletes. “There is a popular saying that when a woman puts her hand to the plow, the earth itself will respond to her. Your initiatives and generosity are unparalleled and serve as a great source of inspiration to us all,” he said.
In his remarks, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for sports and the First Lady’s commitment to its growth. He noted that their leadership has ushered in a new era of opportunities for female athletes in Nigeria.
“I sincerely thank the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Mr. President for their steadfast commitment to sports, especially through the RHINSE campaign, which is driving a new era of development. I also salute Her Excellency’s continuous support for women’s sports in Nigeria, particularly her encouragement of the Super Falcons.”
Additionally, I extend my appreciation to the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Wale Adeniyi, for his invaluable support to sports in Nigeria,” Olopade stated.
“With support coming from all levels of leadership, the Nigerian girl child can now truly hold her head up high,” he added.
Following the speeches, Senator Tinubu was officially presented with her kits as the Grand Patron of the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship.
The African Women’s Volleyball Championship will be hosted in Abuja from April 1st to 14th 2025. It will feature 23 African nations alongside host country Nigeria.
