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Who Is the Greatest Sports Administrator in Kwara’s History? Bola Mogaji or the Rest?
In recent years, Kwara State has witnessed an unprecedented transformation in its sports sector—marked by record-breaking achievements, infrastructural growth, and a renewed sense of purpose across sporting disciplines. While debates continue over who holds the title of Kwara’s greatest sports administrator, one name consistently rises to the top of the conversation: Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, the current Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission. His leadership has sparked discussions, not only for its results but for its bold approach to sports governance and development.
For the first time in decades, Kwara State’s presence in major national competitions is not only being felt—it is setting new standards.
From Forgotten to First: Rebirth Across Sports
The resurgence in table tennis adds to a growing list of firsts for Kwara under Mogaji. In recent years:
Kwara United lifted their first-ever national football trophy, ending years of underachievement.
The state produced Nigeria’s No. 1 and No. 2-ranked female squash players.
A Kwara-born para-athlete rose to become the world’s No. 2 in para-badminton.
“This is a new dawn for Kwara sports, and it didn’t happen by luck. It is the result of clear vision, discipline, and investment,” said a senior coach at the State Sports Commission who asked not to be named.
Infrastructure Revolution
Mogaji’s administration has overseen sweeping infrastructure developments, including:
A stand-alone, state-of-the-art table tennis complex
A new international standard squash court
A fully renovated indoor sports hall
Upgrades to the main stadium road, improving access and environment for athletes and fans alike
These facilities have not only elevated the state’s profile but have also boosted athlete morale and performance, especially in previously neglected sports.
Welfare and Workforce: A Human-Centered Approach
Athlete welfare has been a cornerstone of the Commission’s operations. Several athletes have been publicly recognized, with some rewarded with brand new vehicles and financial incentives among other benefits.
Facilitation of the payment of 16-year outstanding entitlements owed to former Kwara United staff and players.
Equally important was the conversion of KFA staff to permanent employment, a move that now entitles them to promotion, pension, and retirement benefits. This development has been widely praised as a lasting solution to instability in sports staffing in Kwara.
Fighting Corruption, Building Discipline
While Mogaji’s leadership has been widely praised, it has also faced resistance—especially from those opposed to the discipline and accountability he demands. Sources within the Commission confirmed that several officials uncomfortable with the new order have resorted to “coordinated blackmail” to discredit his reforms.
Despite this, his support remains strong among athletes and coaches.
“He is strict, but fair. He supports you if you work, and he holds you accountable if you don’t. That’s what leadership should be,” a former athlete said.
Comprehensive Supervision and Tertiary School Sports Revival
As head of the Commission, Mogaji also directly supervises major sports institutions such as:
Kwara United
Kwara Falcons (Basketball)
Kwara Ladies Football Team
Kwara Football Academy (KFA)
This close supervision rooted out corruption and inefficiency, a move that attracted blackmail from those benefiting from the status quo.
He has also strengthened the role of sports in tertiary institutions, earning the admiration of all Student Union Sports Directors across Kwara, and is credited with reviving primary and secondary school competitions.
National Impact and Unmatched Knowledge
A seasoned sportsman himself, Mogaji is not new to the field. A graduate of the University of Ibadan where he studied Physical and Health Education, he represented Kwara in football, hockey, cricket, among others, and gained national attention in squash. He won medals for Kwara State and Nigeria as an athlete and as a coach.
Many people praised him to be a leader who gives every sport its deserved attention not as the story was in history.
“This new leader in sports has made many of us realize that there is more to sports in Kwara than just football. Personally, I was only familiar with football, but now I’ve come to know and appreciate other sports as well,” a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly remarked.
He has held several national roles including:
Board Member, Nigeria Squash Federation (since 1985)
President, Nigeria Squash Referees Association
Vice President, Nigeria Squash Federation
He is widely referred to as the “Encyclopedia of Sports” for his deep knowledge of sports history, structures, and personalities.
A Legacy of Humility and Loyalty
Despite the accolades, Mogaji consistently credits his successes to the support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whom he describes as the real visionary behind the transformation of sports in the state.
“Whatever we are doing is in line with the Governor’s commitment to youth development, sports investment, and talent discovery,” Mogaji has often said.
As Kwara returns to the table tennis final after many years, and as the state continues to rise in the national sports ranking, one thing is clear: Bola Mogaji’s era has redefined sports administration in Kwara State.
While some may focus on his imperfections, the record speaks for itself: in performance, in discipline, in infrastructure, and vision, no sports administrator has done more for Kwara State.
Sulyman Adeshina Writes from Kwara State
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