Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has congratulated Nigerian-British bodybuilder Samson Dauda for winning 2024 Mr Olympia bodybuilding title and securing more than $600,000, the largest prize in sport’s history.
Gatekeepers News reports that the chairman of NiDCOM congratulated the bodybuilder through a statement released in Abuja by Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NiDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.
Dauda emerged victorious at the finale held at Resorts World Theatre, Las Vegas after competing with big opponents like Hadi Choopan, who came second, and Derek Lunsford, 2023 champion who came third.
Dabiri-Erewa praised Dauda’s extraordinary journey, from his early years in Lagos to his rise in professional bodybuilding, noting that his win is a moment of pride for Nigerians globally.
She said, “This achievement showcases the excellence Nigerians in the diaspora continue to display across various sectors. Samson Dauda has proven that with focus and perseverance, success is inevitable.”
The ‘Nigerian Lion’ who hails from Edo state and was born in Lagos moved to the United Kingdom (UK) as a teenager, where he transitioned from rugby to bodybuilding.
His professional journey took off after winning the IFBB Amateur Diamond Cup in Rome in 2017. Dauda has since demonstrated consistent growth, culminating in his Mr Olympia title.
The statement added, “NiDCOM continues to celebrate and support the achievements of Nigerians abroad, reaffirming its commitment to promoting their talents and contributions to global development.”
