The Nigerian athletics community is sad over the death of Prince Simon Ayuba, the Technical Director of Gombe Athletics Academy. He was known for nurturing young talents and leading teams to many competitions.
Ayuba was from Bassa, Plateau State. He had professional coaching certificates and experience in different areas like sprints, hurdles, quarter-mile races, throws, and jumps.
One of his big successes was at the 2023 Youth Games in Delta State. The Gombe Athletics Academy team won five medals under his guidance while representing Gombe State.
He also took athletes to youth competitions and military games both in Nigeria and abroad during his coaching career.
Remembering Ayuba
Beyond his coaching skills, colleagues remember Ayuba for his humility, hard work, and commitment to developing grassroots athletics.
Former Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, expressed his sadness over Ayuba's death. He prayed for comfort for those who are mourning him.
“So sad. May God bless his amiable soul and comfort all who now mourn his passing,” Nesiama said.
Chinedum Ohanusi, a sports journalist with Radio Nigeria Network, also shared his condolences with Ayuba's family and Alhaji Shuaibu Gara Gombe, the former chairman of the Gombe State Athletics Association.
A fellow journalist, Afolabi Gambari, called Ayuba “such a humble, hardworking and focused coach who gave his all.” He also prayed for strength and comfort for Ayuba's family.
Ayuba’s death is a big loss for athletics in Gombe State and the larger coaching community, especially in grassroots talent development.
His work with young athletes and his guidance at competitions will be part of his lasting legacy.
He is survived by his wife and two children, along with athletes, colleagues, and friends who will always remember his dedication to the sport.
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