Nigeria's Gymnastics Federation appoints 44 coaches, eyes LA 2028 Olympics
The Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN) has appointed 44 coaches to oversee senior and national teams across eight disciplines. Announced in a statement by technical director Rose Verisimo, the appointments cover artistic gymnastics (senior and junior), aerobics gymnastics, trampoline and double mini‑trampoline (DMT), tumbling, parkour, acrobatics and rhythmic gymnastics. Isaiah Oni Erhunwunse (OLY) heads the senior men’s artistic team; Helen Albert leads the senior women’s artistic team. For juniors, Kennedy Osawaro directs the men’s artistic squad and Abosede Olatundun Oladele heads the women’s junior team. In aerobics, Edina Ahue is senior head coach and Michael Okeke leads the junior team. Dorcas Abel oversees senior men’s trampoline, DMT and tumbling, while Osasu Obasohan heads the senior women’s team. Junior men’s trampoline/DMT/tumbling is handled by Michael Jos, Stephen Taiwo and Christopher Akhidenor; junior women by Adekemi Ademuwagun, David Egbunu and Ashiagu Charles. Other appointments include Victoria Itodo (senior women’s parkour), Olorunfemi Samuel Adeyemi (senior men’s parkour), Davidson Erhunwunse (junior men’s parkour), Elkana Sabo (senior acrobatics) and Kunle Adedoyin with Amos Dauda (junior acrobatics). Cathrine Sasode coordinates senior rhythmic gymnastics with Valentina Ojo as assistant; Chinedu Oyegbata leads junior rhythmic gymnastics, aided by Praise Amsey. Lesli Amadi heads Gymnastics for All, with Kayode Olusegun Adesola and Maureen Ugiagbe as assistants; Uwa Anthonia is safeguarding officer and Mary Ibrahim anti‑doping officer. GFN President Kelvin Erhunwunse said the selections were based on merit, experience and track record, aiming to boost medal prospects and secure qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. He urged the coaches to serve with discipline and professionalism as they prepare athletes for upcoming national and international competitions.