The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has called on Africans across the continent and in the diaspora to embrace unity, love, and mutual respect, emphasizing that xenophobia has no place in modern Africa.

Olopade delivered the message during a visit to Team Nigeria’s training session in Gaborone, Botswana, ahead of the World Athletics Relays. During the visit, he engaged in a friendly exchange with South African sprint star Akani Simbine, using the moment to promote peace and African solidarity.

“South Africa and Nigeria, we are one. Stop the xenophobia. Stop attacking your brothers. We are all Africans and one family. I am here with Simbine from South Africa,” Olopade said.

Highlighting the unifying power of sport, he noted that athletics transcends nationality, language, and politics. The camaraderie between Nigerian and South African athletes in Gaborone, he said, should serve as a model for broader African relations.

“Look at what is happening here at training. Athletes from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and 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,” Olopade added.

He also called on political leaders, community heads, and citizens in both countries to reject divisive rhetoric and safeguard the historic ties between Africa’s two largest economies.

“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 neighborhoods. We are one family,” he concluded.

Team Nigeria is in Gaborone for final preparations ahead of the World Athletics Relays, where both Nigeria and South Africa will compete. Olopade reaffirmed that the Commission will continue leveraging sport as a tool for diplomacy, youth engagement, and continental integration.

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