Former Nigeria U17 assistant coach Haruna bags AFRILA Award

Former Assistant coach of the Nigeria National U17 team, Bunmi Haruna has been recognized for his contribution to sports development in Nigeria and Africa by the African Excellence Foundation (AFRILA Award).

The organizer Austin Holy, says the recognition is for Bunmi's contribution to upholding Africa's cultural heritage through sports.
Bunmi, a CAF-licensed coach rose from being a TV/Radio reporter to taking up the challenge of a football coach.

In 2018, he was appointed one of the assistants to legendary Nigeria youth coach Manu Garba and the team went on to represent Nigeria at the 2019 FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil.

The young coach has also worked with former African Footballer of the Year, Emmanuel Amunike, and coach Nduka Ugbade among others.

Bunmi Blair (nicknamed The Sports Prime Minister) is a popular Sports On-Air Personality on Abuja's prestigious radio stations, 95.1 Nigeria Info FM, 96.9 Cool FM, and 99.5 Wazobia FM.

He also serves as the chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), FCT chapter.

"It is a great privilege to be recognized by Africa Legendary Awards as the Progressive Sports Hero, 2023.

"Celebrating and upholding Africa's heritage is a must for all of us.

"People most times think the European way of play or culture is superior to the African way, but this is not true.

"The Europeans leverage Africa's rich culture to sustain their cultures.

"From Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto, Austin Okocha, Mohammed Salah to even Victor Osimhen, Africa has continued to showcase her rich culture at the biggest stage.

"It is my hope that our leaders will stop lording foreign cultures on our people by giving the best positions and opportunities available in Africa to Africans."

The event which took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel also saw Dr. Justina Ezeyin, Professor Mike Ozekhome, Dr. Peace Edeko, Jaiz Bank, Hon. Isa Dogonyaro, Teefum Travels among others bag awards on the night.
    

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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