The International Judo Federation (IJF) has welcomed the steps being taken by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to address governance issues within the Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF), expressing support for a transparent, fair and inclusive electoral process.
In a letter dated October 9, 2026, and addressed to the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, the IJF acknowledged the Commission’s communication on the administrative status of the federation and noted the dissolution of the NJF Board, the establishment of a Caretaker Committee and the transitional arrangements put in place to facilitate fresh elections.
The letter, signed by IJF Secretary General, Dr. Lisa Allan, acknowledged the Caretaker Committee’s mandate to amend the NJF Constitution and convene an electoral General Assembly. It also noted that members of the committee had undertaken not to contest in the forthcoming election.
The international body welcomed the NSC’s efforts to resolve the federation’s governance challenges, while expressing confidence that the electoral process would comply with applicable 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 an important step in the Commission’s efforts to restore administrative stability, strengthen governance and create a credible pathway towards an elected board for Nigerian judo.
The NSC had approved the constitution of a Caretaker Committee following the dissolution of the federation’s board. The committee is charged with overseeing the federation’s day-to-day administration, reviewing its constitution to reflect requirements of the IJF, convening an Annual General Meeting for approval of the amended constitution, and organising elections to usher in a duly elected 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 groundwork for a more accountable and inclusive governance structure.
The Commission’s action underscores its commitment to strengthening the administration of national sports federations and ensuring that their leadership structures operate in line with applicable regulations and the broader objectives of sports development in Nigeria.
