​Transition of Power: NOC Sec Tunde Poopola handover to newly elected Olabanjo Oladapo in Lagos

Following the successful NOC elections conducted few weeks ago in Yola, Adamawa state; that witnessed the emergence of former Secretary Mr. Olabanji Oladapo as the new Secretary-general of the Nigeria Olympics Committee headed by Engr. Abu Gumel.

The handing over ceremony which began today by 11:45am between the outgoing Secretary General, Chief Popoola Tunde and incoming Sec Gen, Mr. Olabanji Oladapo was held at the NOC Secretariat inside the National Stadium in Lagos.

Amazingly, the newly elected NOC Public Relation Officer, Mr. Femi Adetuga a (Professional Journalist) who also anchored the program later spices it up with few jokes and trilling quotes.

Expectedly, the event had various Press men, NOC staffs and the leader Engr. Abu Gumel who presided over the both parties while other formalities regarding exchange of power as documents and signatories was formalized.

According to Gumel, "The Media are part and parcel of the NOC because without you we can't work alone.

Appealing to Journalists to collaborate with them in order for them to achieve more as an organization in Sports development.

Gumel told news men, "Elections is come and gone although, it's a family affair therefore we need all your support for a successful 2019 calendar as we look forward to the Beach games, All Africa games, America games and the 2020 Olympic games" he added.

NOC is working hard with the Federal Ministry of Sports and other government agencies to achieve his goals but the National Sports Federations need to be decent.

"They're aware of our plans to conduct elections, i believe they will finish their constitution before then.

Nevertheless, when asked about his new drive to promote Sports through his office, "I'm going to add more to the previous mile stone, i.e developing more athletes that will replace the aging ones in global standard and award more scholarship to promising athletes" Gumel finalized.

However, the scholarship scheme which has enabled many dreams come to limelight, is a continuous initiative of the Gumel led board in order to encourage their careers in different Sports.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Secretary (Chief) Tunde Poopola while handing over to his former predecessor that coincidentally now become his current successor expressed his appreciation to everyone that graced the historic occasion.

Stating, "It time for me to exist after 8 years of diligent service at NOC Secretary-general, it's time for me to move on because it's time for change.

He repeatedly said, no regret despite some embittered individuals who think the rules at NOC can be compromise.

"I once served in the Banking sector for 25 years without blemish, so when it come to the books (NOC constitutions), i'm very honest and discipline"

Adding, i have prepared my note which is a symbolic of today gathering as i review few quotes...

On the other hand, Mr. Olubanjo Oladapo who hole kindheartedly received the documents with smiles on his face also congratulated Chief Tunde Poopola for a job well done.

"Assuring that "I will manage all the idea's written on this documents, debunking the claims that his absent has hampered NOC progress as he affirmed, "It's personal"

Aside from pleasantries shared among the two famous administrators, the gifts which was exchanged also added glamour to the event thereby leaving everyone in a cheerful mode.

"I must admit, i'm overwhelmed with this opportunity to have served, indeed my handwork has started yielding results after many years of been a Sport-man and an administrator" Poopola summarized.

In summary, the remarkable moment came to an end at 1:30pm which was followed by a general handshake by the outing Chief Tunde Poopola shortly after his closing speech.