Ready to Serve AFN: Ikpokpo Speaks Up

Itiako Ikpokpo, who serves as both a project consultant and co-chairman for the Niger Delta Sports Festival, stated that he would be willing to collaborate with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s board should the circumstances prove favorable.

Ikpokpo lost 4-2 to Gabriel Okon in the election conducted on Monday in Benin to determine the representative for the zone on the AFN council.

He extended his congratulations to Okon and stated that he will keep supporting the progress of athletics along with various other sports within both the region and the nation as a whole.

He emphasized that the election was not a make-or-break situation since the individuals chosen to serve on the board would be responsible for mapping out strategies for advancing sports development within the nation.

He observed that his opportunity to join the board was forthcoming, adding that the experience gained from being a first-time candidate would better equip him for future elections.

Ikpokpo stated, "Regardless of losing this election, I am prepared to serve the AFN in whatever role is needed. Provided the AFN has the appropriate leadership and favorable circumstances, I am confident that I can contribute effectively."

Okon pointed out that his win was for the region since there were neither winners nor losers. He expressed readiness to collaborate with all parties involved in the region to advance sports development.

He pointed out that efforts would focus on engaging with local communities to foster athletic development in the South-South region as well as throughout the nation, while also praising the participants and even his rival for maintaining excellent behavior during the elections.

The electoral officer, Braveman Wodi, announced Okon as the victor, whereas Oredipe Kolawole from Bayelsa pulled out of the race just a few hours prior to the election.

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).