Nigeria Weightlifting Federation Moves to End Athlete Transfer Disputes with New Guidelines
The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) has announced the completion and submission of a landmark report by the Committee on Guidelines for the Transfer of Athletes.
This marks a significant step toward reform, transparency, and administrative excellence in Nigerian weightlifting.
The initiative reflects the vision of NWF President, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, whose proactive leadership aims to eliminate disputes and bottlenecks surrounding athlete movement. His commitment to unity, fairness, and order has been pivotal in driving this reform.
The committee, chaired by Dr. Steve Olarinoye with Mr. Innocent Nwankwo as Deputy Chairman, included Mallam Zanna Umar, Alhaja Omolola Tijani, Sefiya Onabaye (Technical Director), Mary Osifo, and Melvina Apeh (Secretary).
Their mandate was to create a comprehensive framework regulating transfers across states and clubs.
For years, athlete transfers during major competitions such as the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games, and National Championships have been contentious. The new guidelines introduce a structured, transparent, and equitable system designed to protect athletes, states, and the Federation.
The framework also addresses international transfers, ensuring proper regulation and safeguarding national interests.
Dr. Olarinoye emphasized the committee’s deliberate approach:
‘We carefully studied existing challenges and aligned our recommendations with international best practices. Our goal was to create clear, fair, and enforceable guidelines that will stand the test of time.’
The report has been formally submitted and will be presented for ratification at the NWF Annual General Meeting later this year.
This development underscores the Federation’s dedication to good governance, institutional growth, and the sustainable advancement of weightlifting in Nigeria.
