Omowunmi Olalere, Vice President of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria, has shared her inspiring story of adopting gymnastics as a sport worth fighting for. As a business owner, Olalere believes that success comes with a responsibility to society. She decided to invest in gymnastics as part of her Corporate Social Responsibility, aiming to give back to the community and make a difference in people's lives. Her involvement in gymnastics began with her children's interest in the sport, and she saw its potential in building discipline, courage, and confidence in Nigerian children.
Olalere's journey in gymnastics began in 2021 when she became Chairperson of the Southwest Gymnastics Association and contested for the presidency of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria. Although she lost the election, she accepted the outcome and used it as an opportunity to learn and grow. She began studying the sport, meeting stakeholders, supporting athletes, and investing her time, relationships, and resources. Her contributions, however, were not always recognized, and she faced challenges as she continued to push for the development of gymnastics in Nigeria.
In 2025, Olalere decided to try again, this time with a different outcome. The incumbent president had already spent eight years in office, and Olalere believed it was time for a change. She campaigned, traveled, networked, and built relationships with stakeholders. Although she secured the support of three constituencies, she knew she needed to secure five more to win. However, the process took an unexpected turn when the Constitution was amended, allowing the incumbent to run for a third term. Olalere questioned the legitimacy of the process and the decision.
The election that followed was marred by controversy, with some stakeholders questioning its validity. Olalere refused to accept the outcome, citing irregularities in the process. The election was subsequently annulled, and another one was scheduled for October 25, 2025. However, the process surrounding the annulled election was reconsidered, and uncertainty surrounded the earlier outcome. The gymnastics community was left in limbo, and athletes, coaches, and stakeholders were all left waiting.
Olalere believes that her experience was influenced by her being a woman. She faced resistance, pressure, and attempts to make her retreat. She felt that her capacity, voice, and right to compete were being questioned in ways that made her wonder if a woman who dared to challenge the established order was welcome. Despite the challenges, Olalere refused to be intimidated or treated as insignificant. She continued to push for a legitimate election, asking only for the right to compete.
Eventually, Olalere was persuaded to accept the position of First Vice President in the interest of peace. She remains hesitant, knowing her capacity, relationships, and work in gymnastics. Her experience has highlighted the challenges women face in sports leadership, and she continues to advocate for a fair and legitimate process. Olalere's story serves as an inspiration to women in sports, demonstrating her determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
As Olalere looks to the future, she hopes that her experience will bring about positive change in Nigerian gymnastics. She emphasizes the importance of a fair and transparent process in the election of leaders, ensuring that the best interests of the sport and its athletes are represented. With her continued involvement in gymnastics, Olalere aims to make a lasting impact on the sport and inspire a new generation of athletes and leaders.
Key points
- Omowunmi Olalere, Nigeria's gymnastics VP, fought for a fair election and women's leadership in sports.
- Olalere faced challenges and resistance as a woman in a leadership position, but refused to be intimidated.
- Her experience highlights the need for a fair and transparent process in the election of sports leaders.
