Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Hon. Idris Muhammad Gobir, is set to represent the Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, at the fourth edition of the prestigious Africa-Europe Sports Awards, holding today, October 19 in Paris, France.
The high-profile event will bring together distinguished sports personalities, athletes, administrators and other prominent figures to celebrate sporting excellence, achievement and the growing connections between Africa and Europe.
The presence of the Sokoto State Deputy Governor, who is representing Governor Aliyu is expected to underscore the importance of sports diplomacy, international cooperation and the role of sporting events in promoting cultural exchange and strengthening relationships between African communities and their European counterparts.
The fourth edition of the awards will also celebrate notable personalities whose contributions and achievements have made a significant impact in the world of sports.
Among the personalities expected to receive awards are Yeo Moriba, the mother of French football star Paul Pogba; former French international handball player Mariama SignatΓ©; and renowned Moroccan football referee Bouchra Karboubi.
Their recognition highlights the diverse contributions of individuals to sports, from supporting the development of athletes and excelling in professional competition to breaking barriers in sports officiating.
Bouchra Karboubi, in particular, has earned international recognition for her achievements as a football referee, becoming one of the prominent female officials on the African and international football stages.
With guests representing different sporting disciplines and areas of influence, the 2026 edition will highlight the diverse contributions that make sport a force for opportunity, inspiration and international partnership. Also in line to receive the distinguished Ambassadorial Award is the former Nigerian international, AFCON silver medal winner Paul Lucky Okoku, who was vice captain of the first Nigerian team to qualify for any FIFA organised tournament, the Flying Eagles set to the FIFA U-20 Cup in Mexico in 1983.
Based in the United States of America, Paul Okoku boasts an impressive and intimidating resume cutting across sports, academics, workforce and stellar innovation in business and development.
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The Africa-Europe Sports Awards provides a platform for recognising outstanding achievements, celebrating African sporting talent and honouring personalities whose influence extends beyond the playing field.
The participation of the Sokoto State delegation is also an opportunity to showcase the stateβs commitment to sports development and explore avenues for partnerships that could support young athletes, grassroots sports and international sporting engagement.
As Paris prepares to host the fourth edition of the ceremony, expectations are high for an evening of recognition, networking and celebration of the individuals helping shape the future of sports across Africa and Europe.
The event is organised by OJB Media Network, led by international sports journalist, Babatunde Ojora and is scheduled to take place at Maison des Arts in the Paris region.
