Encomiums as Popoola hands NOC secretariat over to Oladapo

It was the beginning of another era in the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) yesterday when immediate past secretary general, Babatunde Popoola handed over the secretariat to his successor, Olabanji Oladapo.

The committee’s president, Habu Gumel and top management staff witnessed the brief ceremony, which took place at the NOC conference room. Popoola, who was NOC secretary for eight years, thanked Gumel, the board of NOC and members of the media for their support during his time in office. Popoola said he was leaving as a fulfilled man going by what he was able to achieve during his time.

“It was an interesting eight years in office and a very great moment of my life where I can boldly say I left my mark on the sand of time.“During my time, we went far in marketing and branding of NOC as an entity which I believe can be improved upon.”

Popoola described the incoming secretary general as an elder brother who stood by him during his tenure and promised to always be around to contribute his quota to the development of sports and the Olympic family.

Also speaking on the occasion, Oladapo stressed the need to continue with the legacy of the Olympic movement, while promising an all inclusive and innovative secretariat.“2019 is a busy year for us on the international stage, which will dovetail into the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. All hands must be on deck to ensure that we ably represent Nigeria.“This is a selfless service to humanity as we continue to grow sports and reposition the NOC to a viable brand,” Oladapo added.