NiDCOM Boss Celebrates Ajayi, Anunoby For Excellence Feats

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), celebrates the duo of Nigerian sprint sensation Ajayi Kayinsola on his outstanding achievements at the global athletics stage as well as OG Anunoby, British-Nigerian basketball star on his remarkable performance and historic contribution to the New York Knicks’ dramatic victory in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

In a congratulatory message to the two Champions, Dabiri-Erewa in a statement issued by her spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, described them as a shining example of Nigerian excellence, and resilience across the globe.

She commended Ajayi, the young athlete from Ikorodu, Lagos State, for his remarkable rise in world athletics and for consistently breaking records while proudly representing Nigeria on the international scene.

She noted that Ajayi’s historic qualification for the 100m final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships made him the first Nigerian in 18 years to reach the event’s final, a feat that rekindled national pride and renewed optimism for Nigerian athletics.

The NiDCOM Boss further praised the sprinter’s extraordinary performances during the 2026 season, which have established him as one of the world’s most exciting athletes.

Beginning the 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion, Ajayi won the 60m title at the SEC Indoor Championships with a national record time of 6.45 seconds, a performance that equalled both the African and NCAA collegiate records.

He subsequently matched the feat to claim the NCAA Indoor Championship title.

The sprint star continued his record-breaking run during the outdoor season by eclipsing the long-standing Nigerian 100m record previously held by Olusoji Fasuba, clocking a world-leading 9.84 seconds and becoming the fastest man in the world over the distance this season.

In another historic achievement, Ajayi recently won the 100m title at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, recording an astonishing wind-assisted 9.72 seconds, the fastest all-conditions time ever run by an African athlete.

According to Dabiri-Erewa, Ajayi’s accomplishments have once again demonstrated Nigeria’s capacity to produce world-class athletes capable of competing and excelling at the highest levels.

“His success story underscores the importance of investing in youth development, sports, and talent discovery. We are proud of his accomplishments and confident that he will continue to make Nigeria proud on the global stage,” she added.

Dabiri-Erewa urged corporate organizations, stakeholders, and relevant authorities to continue supporting and celebrating outstanding Nigerians who distinguish themselves internationally, noting that their achievements contribute significantly to Nigeria’s image and reputation worldwide.

She wished Ajayi continued success in his athletic career and expressed confidence that greater accomplishments await him in the years ahead.

In the same vein, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, OG Anunoby, who was born in London to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent, delivered a defining moment in the game when he soared through the air to tip in Jalen Brunson’s shot attempt with just 1.2 seconds remaining, sealing a stunning comeback from a 29-point deficit and sending Madison Square Garden into celebration.

Describing the feat as inspiring and a result to the resilience, determination, and excellence associated with Nigerians in the diaspora, she stressed that Anunoby’s achievement has once again placed Nigerians on the global sporting map.

“On behalf of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and Nigerians at home and abroad, I congratulate OG Anunoby on this historic accomplishment. His outstanding performance on one of basketball’s biggest stages reflects the immense potential of Nigerians and those of Nigerian heritage who continue to excel globally,” she stated.

The NiDCOM Chairman noted that Anunoby’s game-winning contribution has resonated far beyond the United States, inspiring millions of young basketball enthusiasts across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and around the world.

Speaking after the match, Anunoby described the moment as significant for basketball in the United Kingdom, saying: “Game four was probably the top of British basketball history. It was just amazing for Britain and the UK, and just everyone that loves basketball in the UK.”

Dabiri-Erewa commended Anunoby for remaining an exemplary ambassador of his Nigerian heritage and for demonstrating excellence, discipline, and professionalism throughout his career.

She added that the Commission remains proud of Nigerians and Nigerians in the diaspora who continue to distinguish themselves in various fields, contributing positively to the image and reputation of Nigeria globally.

The NiDCOM Boss wished Anunoby and the New York Knicks continued success as they progress in the NBA Finals and expressed confidence that his achievements would continue to inspire the next generation of athletes of Nigerian descent.