By Teddy Nwanunobi
Her Royal Majesty and Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, Ambassador Lois Andrew Ihwo, has expressed optimism that Kingsley James Awodi’s leadership will usher in a new phase of growth and development for the para-powerlifting sport in Nigeria.
Ihwo, while congratulating Awodi on his inauguration as the President of the Nigeria Para-Powerlifting Federation (NPPF), said that Awodi’s wealth of experience and passion for sports administration place him in a strong position to steer the federation towards greater achievements.
She described Awodi’s emergence as president as a testament to the confidence and trust members of the federation have reposed in his leadership abilities, competence and vision for the future of para-powerlifting in the country.
She noted that Awodi has, over the years, built a reputation as a dedicated sports administrator and dependable stakeholder who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to advancing sports and the welfare of athletes.
According to her, Awodi will strengthen the federation’s institutional capacity, and consolidate Nigeria’s reputation as one of the leading nations in global para-powerlifting.
Ihwo further expressed confidence that under Awodi’s watch, the federation would prioritise athlete development and welfare, deepen grassroots participation, and create more opportunities for para-athletes to excel on both continental and international stages.
A passionate advocate of sports development, the renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist has remained actively involved in promoting grassroots sports and talent discovery initiatives. Through the sponsorship of sporting competitions and support for athletes and community-based sports programmes, she has continued to champion youth development and empowerment through sports.
Meanwhile, Awodi, shortly after his inauguration, thanked members of the federation for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the NPPF at a critical stage in its development.
He pledged to work closely with the National Sports Commission, coaches, athletes, technical officials and development partners to consolidate Nigeria’s position as a dominant force in world para-powerlifting.
The newly inaugurated president also promised to pursue policies and programmes to sustain the sport’s growth, enhance its international competitiveness, and create an enabling environment for Nigerian para-athletes to continue excelling on the global stage.