The Nigeria Triathlon Union (NTU) has elected Ize Matebese as its new president. This change in leadership follows a successful congress held in Lagos.
The congress also acted as the union’s general assembly. It took place on Wednesday, September 30, at the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) headquarters in the National Stadium, Surulere.
Mrs Matebese takes over from Wale Oladunjoye, who led the union since 2018. He stepped down to allow for fresh elections after serving two terms.
The new executive team includes Abiona Babarinde as first vice president, Olukayode Oguntayo as second vice president, Priscilla Iroaganachi as secretary-general, Raliat Abdulsalam as deputy secretary-general, and Modupeola Ofonedo as treasurer.
The new leadership aims to boost triathlon in Nigeria. They plan to do this through regular competitions, grassroots development, school programs, and raising public awareness about the sport.
After her election, Mrs Matebese said this was a chance to start a new phase in Nigerian triathlon.
"As I said in my speech, I hope to be able to birth a new beginning," she stated.
She mentioned that her immediate goals include putting together a strong team to promote the sport, reviving the union’s secretariat, and organizing a championship to enhance its visibility.
"I think one of the things we probably need now is to have some sort of a tournament or championship.
"I think we haven’t had that for a while, so we need to do that. That’s something that’s visible. People will see, awareness will be created."
Focus on Schools and Grassroots Development
Mrs Matebese mentioned that the union would focus on schools to find and nurture young athletes.
"We want to focus on the schools, because we like to catch them young, young people to be involved in triathlon. So that’s going to be my immediate goal," she said.
She also hopes the union can find athletes who can represent Nigeria in major international events, including the Olympic Games.
While Nigerian athletes have competed internationally, the country has not yet been represented in triathlon at the Olympics.
Mrs Matebese explained that the union would evaluate the available talent and create chances for athletes who meet the required standards.
The new president’s focus on grassroots development aligns with the union’s need to improve athlete identification, coaching, regular competitions, and international exposure.
Glover Anticipates More Competitions
Lanre Glover, the union’s life president, sees the change in leadership as a way to bring more competitions and development programs.
He noted that the new president was one of the founding members. She also has significant experience in international championships and congresses.
Mr Glover highlighted the importance of school sports in shaping the next generation of triathletes. He sees young people as the future of the sport.
He mentioned that the union would work to restore the friendship and togetherness that have been part of its activities.
He described the NTU as a family where members not only organize championships but also build relationships and enjoy fellowship.
Mr Glover is confident that the union will soon become more visible through new activities and programs.
Nearly Two Decades of History
This leadership change comes as the NTU nears two decades of existence.
Founded in November 2006 by sports administrators with experience in national federations, the union was set up to promote a sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running.
Triathlon started gaining popularity worldwide in the early 1970s and has become an Olympic sport.
The NTU joined the International Triathlon Union, now known as World Triathlon, in February 2007.
It became a full member of the African Triathlon Union in Mauritius in April 2007, where Harry Ladapo and Mr Glover represented Nigeria.
The union also secured full membership of the NOC in May 2007, solidifying its place in Nigeria’s sports structure.
The new executive has a duty to build on these achievements by strengthening the union’s capacity, increasing participation, and creating a clear competition path for Nigerian athletes.
With Mrs Matebese promising a new beginning, the immediate challenge for the leadership will be to turn their plans for school engagement, regular championships, and a revamped secretariat into ongoing activities that can raise the profile of triathlon across Nigeria.
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