Funke Oshonaike makes history as first Nigerian appointed to IOC Athletes’ Commission

Nigerian table tennis legend Funke Oshonaike has reached a historic milestone, becoming the first athlete from her country to be appointed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission.

The seven-time Olympian was among five new members selected by IOC President Kirsty Coventry to ensure the commission is fully staffed ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Oshonaike joins fellow appointees Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha of Iran (badminton), Husein Alireza of Saudi Arabia (rowing), Cheick Sallah Cissé of Côte d’Ivoire (taekwondo), and Mariana Pajón of Colombia (cycling).

Speaking on her historic appointment, Oshonaike expressed gratitude and excitement.

"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," she said.

She added, "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."

Oshonaike’s illustrious career includes representing Nigeria in seven consecutive Olympic Games, from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2020.

President Coventry emphasised the significance of the Athletes’ Commission, stating: "The Athletes’ Commission is essential in making sure athletes remain at the heart of everything we do. I am deeply grateful to our new members for their commitment and the wealth of experience they bring in service to athletes worldwide."

With Oshonaike’s inclusion, the IOC Athletes’ Commission now consists of 23 members representing all continents, including a representative from the Refugee Olympic Team.

The body maintains gender balance with 13 women and 10 men, representing 15 summer and five winter sports.

The Athletes’ Commission plays a vital role in the Olympic Movement, ensuring athletes’ voices are represented at the highest levels of decision-making.

Members are selected through a combination of elections during the Olympic Games and appointments by the IOC President to guarantee representation across gender, geography, and sports disciplines.