Seven-time Olympian Oshonaike Olufunke has made history as the first Nigerian appointed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, following her nomination by IOC President Kirsty Coventry.
Oshonaike, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players, is among five new members appointed to ensure the Commission reaches full composition ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
Oshonaike competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020. She currently serves on both the Nigeria National Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and the Nigeria Table Tennis Athletes’ Commission.
Expressing excitement, Oshonaike Olufunke pledged to represent Nigeria and Africa with pride:
“I am so excited because during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign, I was impressed by the huge support from my country and athletes across the world. This appointment confirms that my efforts did not go unnoticed. It has been my dream to impact the sport that has given me the rare opportunity to live well in life.”
