By Kamall yalwa ABUJA, NIGERIA – September 11, 2025
The Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN), also known as the Nigerian Federation of Gymnastics (NFG), is facing mounting internal dissent and growing calls for reform following the re-election of its long-serving president, Prince Kelvin Erhunmunse.
Prince Kelvin, who has led the federation for the past eight years, secured a third term during elections held on Saturday, September 6, in Gwarinpa, Abuja. The exercise was reportedly attended by delegates from 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory, and monitored by observers including representatives from the Nigeria Olympic Committee.
Describing the election as “peaceful and transparent,” Prince Kelvin welcomed his continued leadership, stating it reflects the confidence of the gymnastics community in his vision for the sport.
However, the election outcome has not gone without controversy. Several stakeholders have raised concerns over the absence of officials from the National Sports Commission (NSC), which had earlier advised postponing the polls to allow for broader participation and oversight.
Adding to the tension, the National Association for Physical, Health Education, Recreation, Sports, and Dance (NAPHER-SD) criticized the exclusion of allied sports bodies from the electoral process, including NAPHER-SD itself, the Nigeria Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS), and paramilitary sports organizations.
Speaking on behalf of NAPHER-SD, Hon. Gbenga Samson described the process as incomplete and called for a comprehensive review to ensure future elections reflect the full spectrum of stakeholders involved in gymnastics development.
“We believe inclusivity is non-negotiable. Any process that sidelines key players in the sport cannot fully represent the interests of the athletes and the broader gymnastics community,” Samson stated.
Multiple petitions have since been lodged with the NSC, requesting a probe into the conduct of the election and the legitimacy of its outcome. Critics argue that without full transparency and fairness, the federation risks deepening mistrust and stalling progress in the sport.
Meanwhile, other stakeholders are using this moment to push for broader reforms in Nigerian gymnastics. Calls are growing for stronger structures to support athlete development, increased participation in international competitions, and the creation of more inclusive leadership frameworks.
“This is not just about an election. It’s about the future of gymnastics in Nigeria,” said one concerned coach. “We need systems that prioritise athletes’ welfare, coaching education, and global competitiveness.”
With the petitions still under review, all eyes are now on the National Sports Commission and other relevant authorities to chart a path forward. For many in the sport, the federation stands at a crossroads—between maintaining the status quo or embracing reforms that could elevate Nigeria’s presence on the global gymnastics stage.
