The Cycling Federation of Nigeria has sworn in Tunde Ajibike and Tawakat Yekeen, ushering in fresh leadership, youth energy, and a renewed drive for grassroots cycling.
The Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the swearing-in of two prominent figures from Oyo State, Tunde Ajibike and Tawakat Yekeen.
The inauguration, held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at the National Sports Commission headquarters in Abuja, was not just ceremonial—it signaled a fresh commitment to grassroots sports, inclusivity, and the elevation of Nigerian cycling.
Their appointments followed a highly competitive election at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium in Abuja, where representatives from different zones battled for seats on the federation’s board.
For many stakeholders, Ajibike and Yekeen represent the balance between seasoned administration and youthful vibrancy that Nigerian cycling urgently needs.
Tunde Ajibike, currently the Acting General Manager of the Oyo State Sports Council, was elected as the Southwest Zonal Representative.
With decades of experience guiding athletes and sports programs, he has built a reputation as a reformer who values discipline and grassroots empowerment.
Ajibike’s record in Oyo State includes organizing inter-school competitions and supporting local cycling clubs, which have helped discover hidden talent.
His new role within the Cycling Federation of Nigeria is expected to scale those efforts nationally.
Shortly after the inauguration, he was appointed chairman of the federation’s Para Commission, a unit dedicated to promoting para-cycling.
This appointment underscores his belief that sports must be inclusive and accessible to all, including persons with disabilities.
At just 24 years old, Tawakat Yekeen brings youthful energy and athletic insight to the CFN board.
A graduate of Ibadan Polytechnic and a gold medalist at national championships, she has already carved out a name for herself in the cycling community.
Her election as Athlete Representative is particularly significant—it gives current competitors a direct voice in policy-making.
Yekeen has often spoken about the struggles of young cyclists, from lack of access to modern bikes to limited exposure at international competitions.
Now seated at the decision-making table, she has the opportunity to influence real change.
Many believe her presence will keep the board connected to the realities of athletes on the ground, ensuring that their welfare and career growth remain a top priority.
Under the leadership of President Engineer Giadomenico Masari, the federation has already laid out a robust agenda.
Eleven commissions have been created to drive development across key areas, including:
Athlete training and performance
Technical standards and officiating
Sponsorship and partnerships
Grassroots competitions
Para-cycling development
Athlete welfare and safety
The aim is to professionalize the sport while creating pathways for young cyclists to rise from local communities to international stages.
To strengthen its capacity, the CFN also co-opted respected figures into its leadership. Among them are Brigadier General Al-Amon, Dr. Andrew Etseto Waghan, Dr. Sam Ogbondeminu, Rt. Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, and Barrister John Fakado. Their expertise is expected to enhance the federation’s strategic direction.
The inauguration was supervised by Mallam Sheu Dikko, chairman of the National Sports Commission, who praised the CFN for organizing a transparent and credible election. He urged the new board to remain focused on grassroots development.
“There is a need to consistently organize competitions that will expose athletes and prepare them for both national and international championships,” Dikko emphasized. He also appealed for stronger partnerships with individuals and organizations to provide equipment, funding, and technical support.
His words captured the expectations placed on the Cycling Federation of Nigeria: to build a system that reduces dependence on foreign-based athletes while producing homegrown champions capable of dominating at global events.
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Cycling is one of the most resource-intensive sports, requiring investment in modern bicycles, safety gear, training facilities, and international exposure. Compared to football or athletics, funding has historically been low.
However, with committed leaders like Ajibike and Yekeen, supported by a dynamic board and the National Sports Commission, there is renewed hope that Nigerian cycling can overcome these barriers. If partnerships with corporate sponsors are secured, the sport could see significant growth in both participation and performance.
The blend of Ajibike’s seasoned administrative background and Yekeen’s youthful athletic perspective offers a powerful combination. Ajibike brings strategy and structure, while Yekeen ensures athletes’ voices are heard. Together, they embody the federation’s vision of bridging generations and uniting diverse perspectives.
Their inauguration also highlights a bigger lesson for Nigerian sports—that leadership should be inclusive of both administrators and active athletes. By giving athletes a seat at the table, federations can make decisions that reflect on-the-ground realities, leading to more sustainable development.
The swearing-in of Tunde Ajibike and Tawakat Yekeen into the Cycling Federation of Nigeria marks more than just a leadership reshuffle—it represents a turning point. With inclusivity, grassroots empowerment, and strategic reforms on the agenda, the federation is positioning itself for a brighter future.
If its plans are carried out effectively, Nigeria could soon witness a surge of homegrown cyclists making their mark in Africa and beyond. For now, the wheels of progress have begun turning, and the Cycling Federation of Nigeria is pedaling firmly toward global recognition.
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