[Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gymnastics_Federation_of_Nigeria) has named a total of 44 coaches to oversee the various disciplines represented in its national squads.
The appointments span both senior and junior contingents in artistic gymnastics, aerobics gymnastics, trampoline, double‑mini trampoline (DMT), tumbling, parkour, acrobatics and rhythmic gymnastics.
The roster was disclosed in a statement signed by Rose Verisimo, who serves as the federation’s technical director.
Isaiah Oni Erhunwunse (OLY) will act as head coach of the senior men’s [artistic gymnastics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artistic_gymnastics) team, with Bala Magaji Juwara and Anthony Duilemi named as his assistants.
Helen Albert has been appointed to lead the senior women’s artistic gymnastics side, assisted by Edem Umor Patric and Adejoh Emmanuel.
For the junior categories, Kennedy Osawaro will head the men’s artistic gymnastics team, supported by Jimoh Wasiu and Jimoh Azeez, while Abosede Olatundun Oladele will steer the women’s junior team, with Deborah Ajiboye and Noel Egbunu as assistants.
In the aerobics gymnastics discipline, Edina Ahue takes charge as senior head coach, aided by David West Tamunuosaki and Jennifer Eke. Michael Ocheke will supervise the junior squad, with Dimeji Aluko and Toyosi Glory Adeyemi as his deputies.
Dorcas Abel has been tasked with heading the senior men’s trampoline, DMT and tumbling team, with Osamudiamwenam Amennaghawon serving as assistant coach.
Osasu Obasohan will manage the senior women’s team in the same disciplines, assisted by Godwin Bamidele and Awokunle Ojo.
The junior men’s trampoline, DMT and tumbling group will be overseen by Michael Jos, Stephen Taiwo and Christopher Akhidenor, while the junior women’s side will be led by Adekemi Ademuwagun, David Egbunu and Ashiagu Charles.
**Federation targets Los Angeles 2028**
GFN President Kelvin Erhunwunse explained that the selections were made on the basis of each coach’s experience and track record in their specific field. “These appointments were made based on merit, dedication, and the track records of the individuals. We have absolute confidence that these coaches possess the requisite experience and passion to elevate Nigerian gymnastics to unprecedented heights,” he said.
He added that the federation’s immediate aim is to improve Nigeria’s chances of winning medals at upcoming international meets, with qualification for the [2028 Los Angeles Olympics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2028_Summer_Olympics) among its key objectives.
“Our primary goal is clear: we want to produce world‑class athletes who will not only dominate the African continent but also stand on the podium at the global stage,” Erhunwunse asserted.
“Preparation for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics begins now, and we are putting the right technical crew in place to achieve this vision,” he continued.
He urged the newly appointed coaches to approach their duties with discipline and professionalism, stating, “I urge all our coaches to view this appointment as a sacred call to serve our fatherland. We expect high levels of discipline, professionalism, and teamwork as you groom the next generation of Nigerian gymnastics.”
**Other appointments**
Victoria Itodo was named head coach of the senior women’s parkour team, while Olorunfemi Samuel Adeyemi will lead the senior men’s parkour side. Davidson Erhunwunse will handle the junior men’s parkour squad, with Stephen Soyimiegha listed as an assistant.
In acrobatics, Elkana Sabo will head the senior team, assisted by Friday Omigie, and the junior team will be overseen by Kunle Adedoyin and Amos Dauda.
Cathrine Sasode has been appointed head coach and general coordinator for the senior rhythmic gymnastics team, with Valentina Ojo as her assistant. The junior rhythmic gymnastics team will be led by Chinedu Oyegbata, aided by Praise Amsey.
Lesli Amadi will serve as head coach for the “Gymnastics for All” programme, supported by Kayode Olusegun Adesola and Maureen Ugiagbe.
Uwa Anthonia was designated safeguarding officer, while Mary Ibrahim will act as anti‑doping officer. Kelvin Erhunwunse will take on the role of gymnastics development director, and Rose Verisimo will retain her position as technical director.
These appointments are expected to form a core part of the federation’s technical framework as it readies athletes for forthcoming national and international competitions.