By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has expressed support for the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) efforts to resolve the governance crisis in the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF), endorsing plans for a transparent, fair and inclusive electoral process.
In a letter dated October 9, 2026, and addressed to the NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, the international body acknowledged the Commission’s communication on the administrative status of the federation, including the dissolution of its board and the establishment of a Caretaker Committee to oversee the transition to fresh elections.
The letter, signed by IJF Secretary-General, Dr. Lisa Allan, also acknowledged the committee’s mandate to amend the NJF Constitution and convene an electoral General Assembly.
The IJF further noted that members of the Caretaker Committee had undertaken not to contest in the forthcoming elections, expressing confidence that the process would comply with relevant regulations and requirements.
“We welcome the steps being taken to address the governance matters within the NJF and support the efforts to ensure a transparent, fair and inclusive electoral process,” the letter stated.
The development represents a boost to the NSC’s efforts to restore administrative stability and establish a credible pathway towards an elected board for Nigerian judo.
The NSC had approved the constitution of the Caretaker Committee following the dissolution of the federation’s board.
The committee is responsible for overseeing the federation’s day-to-day administration, reviewing its constitution to align with IJF requirements, convening an Annual General Meeting to approve the amended constitution and organizing elections for a new board.
The committee is chaired by Sheriff Hammad, with Ekuta Catherine Ewa, Sule Musa, Bashir Musa Bassey and Oladipupo Idowu as members. Amayo Ngozi serves as secretary.
The transitional arrangement is expected to ensure continuity in the federation’s administration while laying the foundation for a more accountable and inclusive governance structure.
The Commission said the move underscored its commitment to strengthening the administration of national sports federations and ensuring that their leadership structures operate in line with applicable regulations and Nigeria’s broader sports development objectives.
