The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Nigerian-born athlete Jovan Olafioye on his induction into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2025, a milestone the commission described as a proud moment for Nigeria and its diaspora community.
In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Dabiri-Erewa praised Olafioye for an illustrious career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) that spanned nearly a decade.
“Olafioye had a fantastic career that lasted almost ten years after making his mark in the Canadian Football League,” she said.
During his eight seasons with the BC Lions, Olafioye won a Grey Cup championship in 2011, earned multiple All-Star selections, and received the league’s prestigious Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman Award in 2012. Known for his dependability and leadership on the offensive line, he became one of the most respected athletes in the CFL.
“This honor is a source of pride for Nigeria and the Nigerian community worldwide, in addition to being a significant personal accomplishment for Olafioye. His induction serves as a testament to the Nigerian diaspora’s expanding influence in a variety of fields, most notably international sports”, Dabiri-Erewa stated.
She further noted that Olafioye’s achievement exemplifies the talent, determination, and resilience of Nigerians excelling on the global stage.
“His story will inspire young Nigerians and aspiring athletes both at home and abroad by showing that hard work and perseverance can lead to recognition at the highest levels of professional sports,” she added.
Olafioye’s induction cements his legacy as one of the CFL’s elite players and reinforces Nigeria’s growing reputation for producing world-class talent in diverse fields beyond its borders.
