Seven-time Olympian Olufunke Oshonaike has expressed delight over her appointment to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, describing it as a proud moment for Nigeria, Africa, and her decades-long career in sports.
Oshonaike was nominated by IOC President Kirsty Coventry, becoming the first Nigerian ever appointed to the influential commission. She joins four other newly selected members as the body moves toward full composition ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
The 50-year-old, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players with multiple African Games medals, said she is honoured to serve and committed to representing the continent with distinction.
In a statement on Thursday, the IOC confirmed the appointments of Oshonaike alongside Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha (Iran, badminton), Husein Alireza (Saudi Arabia, rowing), Cheick Sallah Cissé (Ivory Coast, taekwondo), and Mariana Pajón (Colombia, cycling). The selections were made in consultation with IOC Athletes’ Commission Chair Emma Terho.
“The Athletes’ Commission is essential in making sure athletes remain at the heart of everything we do,” Coventry said. “I am deeply grateful to our new members for their commitment and the wealth of experience they bring in service to athletes worldwide.”
Oshonaike, who competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020, currently serves on both the Nigeria National Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and the Nigeria Table Tennis Athletes’ Commission.
Reflecting on her journey, she said: “I am so excited because during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign, I was impressed by the huge support from my country and athletes across the world. This appointment confirms that my efforts did not go unnoticed. It has been my dream to impact the sport that has given me the rare opportunity to live well in life.”
Her appointment is being celebrated across Nigeria’s sporting community as a milestone achievement and a major boost for athlete representation on the global stage.
