Seven-time Olympian, Olufunke Oshonaike, has made history as the first Nigerian appointed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, www.aclsports.com reports.
Oshonaike, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players, represented Nigeria at seven consecutive Olympic Games from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020 and now steps onto the global stage to advocate for athletes worldwide. She currently serves on both the Nigeria National Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and the Nigeria Table Tennis Athletes’ Commission.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement released on Thursday, 4 December, naming Oshonaike among five new members added to ensure the Commission reaches full composition ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. The other appointees are Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha (Iran, badminton), Husein Alireza (Saudi Arabia, rowing), Cheick Sallah Cissé (Côte d’Ivoire, taekwondo), and Mariana Pajón (Colombia, cycling). The appointments were made in consultation with IOC Athletes’ Commission Chair Emma Terho.
“The Athletes’ Commission is essential in making sure that athletes remain at the heart of everything we do, and that their voices guide our decisions,” IOC President Kirsty Coventry said.
The IOC Athletes’ Commission now comprises 23 members from all continents, including 13 women and 10 men, representing 15 summer sports and five winter sports. The commission plays a key role in advocating for athletes and ensuring their interests remain central to the Olympic Movement.
Oshonaike’s appointment marks a historic milestone for Nigerian sport, highlighting her legacy as one of the country’s most enduring Olympians and her growing influence in global sport administration.
