By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has called for renewed unity among Africans, condemning xenophobia and urging citizens across the continent to embrace peace, love, and shared identity.
Olopade made the remarks during a visit to Team Nigeria’s training camp in Gaborone ahead of the World Athletics Relays.
The visit also featured a symbolic moment as he shared a warm exchange with South African sprint star Akani Simbine, reinforcing his message of African solidarity.
“South Africa and Nigeria, we are one. Stop the xenophobia. Stop attacking your brothers. We are all Africans and we are one family,” Olopade said, gesturing toward Simbine.
He described sports as one of Africa’s strongest unifying forces, capable of bridging divides of nationality, language, and politics.
According to him, the camaraderie among athletes from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Botswana training side by side in Gaborone reflects the kind of unity the continent must embrace.
“Look at what is happening here at training—athletes encouraging one another across borders. That is the Africa we want. Our young people must see that we are stronger together,” he added.
Olopade further urged leaders and citizens in both Nigeria and South Africa to reject divisive narratives and safeguard the longstanding ties between the two nations.
He noted that the mutual support between athletes—whether on the track or in international competitions—demonstrates the power of sport to foster harmony.
“When Simbine runs, Nigerians cheer. When our athletes win, South Africans celebrate too. That is global harmony through sport. Let’s take that spirit from the track to our streets,” he said.
Team Nigeria is currently intensifying preparations in Gaborone for the World Athletics Relays, where both Nigeria and South Africa are competing.
