The build-up to the 2025 sports federation election is heating up following a declaration of interest by a former students’ union President of the University of Port Harcourt, Itiako Ikpokpo, in becoming the next president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
Ikpokpo, popularly known as Malik in Nigerian sports circles, is a politician and entrepreneur, who managed the recently concluded Niger Delta Sports Festival.
He was a two-time chairman of Isoko South Local Council of Delta State, and director-general of ALGON.
Through his company, Dunamis Icon Limited, and his role as chairman of ALGON in Delta State, he launched the Delta State Local Governments Sports Festival, where some star athletes were discovered for the country.
Speaking to newsmen, Ikpokpo said he is sure of becoming the next president of the AFN in this year’s election, which is holding soon.
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“I have been playing an underground role in Nigerian track and field, and this is the time to manage it at the top level.
“In the past week, I have received several calls from both athletes and administrators who are happy with the bold step I have taken to join this AFN president race.
“Someone asked me a funny question, if I am coming into this race because of the success of the Niger Delta Sports Festival?
“My response was what sports initiatives did all former presidents and even the present leader make before they became president of the AFN?” he asked.
