14th November, 2014
Damilare Okunola
Governor Babatunde Fashola, Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama and sprint queen, Blessing Okagbare were the shining stars of the Nigeria Sports Award held last night at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
Governor Fashola was adjudged the Sports Governor of the Year for his contribution to sports development not only in Lagos but the whole country, Lille of France’s goal tender, won the award for Nigeria’s best football player (male) and was also adjudged the sportsman of the year. The one time Enyimba of Aba shot stopper, was absent at the award ceremony because of the Super Eagles’ Nations Cup qualifying match against Congo tomorrow, but nobody was present to pick the awards for him.
On her part, Okagbare won the award for the sportswoman of the year and track and field star of the year under review.
Her brother, who was on hand to pick the awards for her, delivered her message to Nigerian parents, saying “if you have a child who is showing signs of a talent, monitor that child and follow up that talent. It is that nurturing that has brought me to where I am today. Thanks to all who nominated and voted for me”.
Ese Brume, who won a gold medal for Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games after 40 years, was also given a Special Recognition award for her feat.
Aruna Quadri, Loveline Obiji, Courtney Dike, Asisat Oshoala, Peter Dedevbo, were among other winners on the night, while Lagos State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, Mr. Wahid Enitan Oshodi, won Sports Administrator of the year award.
The awards night was also specially dedicated to Godwin Spiff-Sagbama, who was reported to be the first anchor of the event when it started about three years ago.