Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi

The Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi has commiserated with the Omagbemis over the death of the patriarch of the family, Jimmy Omagbemi who passed on last Monday.

Abdullahi recalled that the late Omagbemi was a deputy director of sports at the NSC, who contributed greatly to the development of sports in Nigeria, especially the discovery and development of talents.

He described the deceased as “a dedicated and thoroughbred sports professional whose passion was the development of Nigerian sports. It is no surprise that he left enduring legacies and his children are into sports.

“He would be deeply be missed by the sporting community in Nigeria and the world at large. I pray that his soul rests in peace.”

Similarly, the Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Navy Capt Omatseye  Nesiama also extended his condolence to the family of the late sports administrator.

“No doubt, Chief Jimmy Omagbemi's death is a rude shock despite his age (81 years) and the fact that he had battled with a prolonged illness.

“His demise came at a time his wealth of experience as a foremost ex international, coach and sports administrator is needed most in the reformation and transformation of the Nigerian Sports system towards the achievement of enhanced performance,” observed Nesiama.

The AFN board member prayed that God should grant the soul of Omagbemi eternal rest.

“The nuclear family and indeed all of us in the athletics family need to take consolation in the fact that he spent his time well and when it was time, he bowed out in submission to God's supreme call. May he rest soundly,” he concluded.