Onyali, six other Nigerians named in 50 African influential women in sports

Mary Onyali-Omagbemi

Former African queen of the track, Mary Onyali, has been named among 50 ladies in the continent who have played key roles in advancing the sports industry. Africa Sports Venture Group, which is based in South Africa, released the list in celebrating the International Women’s Day 2024.

Among them are seven Nigerians. They include former African queen of the track, Mary Onyali, Nkechi Obi, the head of the Nigeria Women’s Football League, Tega Onojaife and Ogechi Pepsie Adiukwu. The others are Elizabeth Idoko-Okung, Gbemisola Abudu and Aisha Shuaibu.

They are among a power-packed list headed by former Secretary General of FIFA, Fatma Samoura of Senegal.

Their choice is hinged on the theme: ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.’

According to the Africa Sports Ventures Group, the body is shining a light on African women who are key players in advancing the sports industry.

“These women are making a significant impact in various aspects, driving growth and development in the sector. Our initiative focuses on women excelling in Sports Administration, Business, Media, and Technology, contributing to an industry brimming with potential for substantial socioeconomic and cultural change across the continent”, remarked Leslie Koroma Snr, the Chief Executive Officer of the ASVG.

“We have identified 50 influential women in their respective fields, emphasising that they are all valued equally without any specific ranking or classification based on status or quality.

“We extend our gratitude to these women for their unwavering dedication and relentless efforts in elevating the sports industry to its rightful place as a transformative force in every community throughout the continent.”
Culled from Sports Village Square

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