The nomination of former Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture Otunba Segun Runsewe as Nigeria’s Sports Tourism Icon at this year’s Sportsville Special recognition awards, has been described as one well deserving considering his contributions to the Nation’s Tourism and Sport’s sector.
Otunba Runsewe who is also the Chairman of the Golf Federation of Nigeria, while addressing News men after the awards described the event as one positioned with the right goals and objectives as it celebrates patriotic Nigerians in their life time.
“On Golf, I must commend the World Handicap System (WHS), it was not there before, and we cannot sit down idly. Over $6bn dollars is going round the world right now, what is in it for Nigeria? We want our youth to key into golf. Golf is a unique sports that has the opportunity to create even employment. So we are working on that.”
He described the award ceremony which came up over the weekend, as a fitting tribute to individuals who have left an indelible mark on the nation through their exceptional work and dedication. Otunba Runsewe during his speech as the event expressed his gratitude for the recognition, underscoring the event’s positioning with the right objectives in honoring well-meaning Nigerians across various sectors of the economy. Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Otunba Runsewe emphasized that the event showcased the strength of Nigeria and its remarkable men and women.
He also spoke on the need for sports development in the country calling on referees to take sports officiating seriously as it is serious business outside the shores of Nigeria.
” Our referees must know that we have to change our attitude towards officiating at Matches. All over the world now, officiating is big business, so our referees should connect more to it.
“And our local leagues, we need to develop it. If we have to build an international brand, it starts from the local league. I must commend our local league, they have created some strategies that are highly commendable. I am very proud of this, and I look forward to a time when Nigeria will control the world in terms of sporting activities. ”
Otunba Runsewe was named alongside Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State Governor, during who’s tenure Nigeria won the CAF Championship League, Chief Solomon Ogba also referred to by many in the sector as the Igwe of sports, CEO Brilla FM Radio, Larry Izamojje and Honorable Victor Onyakachi Ochei for their roles in special sports. One of Nigeria’s football Legends and former green eagle’s skipper Dr. Olusegun Odegbami was also on hand as chairman of the day, serenaded by other dignitaries in the sector.
The award underscores his commitment to promoting the rich cultural tapestry of Nigeria while contributing significantly to the development of sports in the country. His relentless efforts have not only elevated the nation’s profile in the global tourism arena but have also fostered a deeper sense of national pride.
His recognition as the Sports Tourism Icon is not just an accolade for him personally but also a celebration of the collective achievements and potentials of the nation. As the Sportsville Special Recognition Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the nation’s outstanding personalities, Otunba Segun Runsewe stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the cultural and sporting landscape of Nigeria.
Otunba Segun Runsewe, Known as a man with several hats for his role in both the Nigerian Culture and Tourism sector as well as in sports tourism and other aspects of the sector within and outside Nigeria, has been described by many across various quarters as one who has brought with him lasting impact in the nation’s cultural heritage and sporting excellence. His relentless efforts in these sectors have not only elevated the nation’s profile in the global tourism arena but as well fostered a deeper sense of national pride.
As the Sportsville Special Recognition Awards continues to beam its spotlight on the nation’s outstanding men and women, Otunba Segun Runsewe stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication to Nigeria’s tourism, culture and sporting landscape. His recognition as the Sports Tourism Icon is not just an accolade for him but also a celebration of the collective achievements and potentials of the nation.
