Olopade condemns xenophobia, calls for African unity

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has called for unity across Africa and strongly condemned xenophobia, insisting that sport should continue to serve as a bridge between nations and cultures, Sunday PUNCH reports.

Olopade made the remarks during a visit to Team Nigeria’s training camp in Gaborone, Botswana, during the 2026 World Athletics Relays, where he also engaged in a brief exchange with South African sprint star Akani Simbine.

He used the opportunity to emphasise the importance of solidarity between African nations, stressing that divisions and attacks based on nationality have no place in modern society.

“South Africa and Nigeria, we are one. Stop the xenophobia. Stop attacking your brothers. We are all Africans and we are one family. I am here with Simbine from South Africa,” Olopade said in a video he shared on social media.

He added that sport remains one of the most powerful tools for unity on the continent, highlighting how athletes from different countries train and interact together in a spirit of mutual respect.

“Look at what is happening here at training. Athletes from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, all sharing the same track, encouraging one another. That is the Africa we want. Our young people must see that we are stronger together,” he said.

Olopade further urged political leaders, community figures and citizens across Africa to reject divisive rhetoric and instead protect long-standing relationships between countries.

“When Simbine runs, Nigerians cheer. When our athletes win, South Africans celebrate too. That is global harmony through sport. Let’s take that spirit from the track to our streets, markets, and neighbourhoods. We are one family,” he added.

Team Nigeria are currently in Botswana for final preparations ahead of the World Athletics Relays, where they will compete alongside South Africa and other African nations.

Olopade said the National Sports Commission will continue to promote sport as a tool for diplomacy, youth engagement and continental integration.