Banjul The Gambia, 18 July 2026 – The President of the Gambia National Olympic Committee, Bai Dodou Jallow, has paid glowing tribute to the country’s sporting pioneers, describing them as the architects of Gambian sport and urging stakeholders to preserve their remarkable legacy for future generations.
Speaking at the “SJAG Day with Gambian Sports Legends” held at Paradise Suites Hotel on Saturday, President Jallow commended the Sports Journalists Association of The Gambia (SJAG) for organising what he described as a timely and commendable initiative to celebrate the men and women whose sacrifices laid the foundation for sports development in The Gambia.
“Today is an opportunity to recognise and preserve the rich sporting heritage of our nation,” Jallow said. “By bringing together some of our finest sporting pioneers under one roof, SJAG is documenting history, celebrating excellence, and creating a platform where younger generations can learn directly from those who paved the way before them.”
The event brought together legendary figures from football, athletics, basketball, volleyball and wrestling, who shared their experiences and reflected on the evolution of sport in The Gambia.
President Jallow noted that many of the country’s sporting legends competed during an era when resources were scarce, yet their commitment and determination never wavered.
“Many of our legends competed at a time when resources were limited, but their commitment was limitless. They carried the Gambian flag with pride, often making personal sacrifices for the love of their sport and country. Their contributions created the pathway upon which today’s athletes continue to build,” he stated.
The GNOC President emphasised that safeguarding the nation’s sporting history is just as important as investing in the future of Gambian sport.
“The GNOC firmly believes that preserving our sporting history is as important as investing in our sporting future. A nation that understands its sporting heritage inspires greater ambition among its youth,” he said, stressing that the stories of the country’s sporting icons must be documented, celebrated and passed on to future generations.
He reaffirmed the Olympic Committee’s commitment to strengthening sports development by supporting athlete pathways, improving governance across sports federations and creating opportunities for Gambian athletes to compete successfully on the international stage.
Addressing young athletes, coaches, sports administrators and journalists, President Jallow encouraged them to learn from the experiences of the country’s pioneers, describing their stories as powerful lessons in resilience, discipline, patriotism, teamwork and leadership.
He also praised the role of sports journalists in preserving the country’s sporting legacy.
“Through your reporting, storytelling and documentation, you ensure that the achievements of our athletes and sports leaders are never forgotten. Events such as this demonstrate the important contribution of sports media not only in covering sport but also in preserving its history,” he remarked.
Concluding his address, President Jallow called on all stakeholders to continue working together to build a stronger sporting movement that honours its past while preparing confidently for the future.
“To all the sports legends gathered here today, we say thank you. Thank you for your sacrifices, your achievements, your mentorship and your enduring contribution to Gambian sport. Your legacy continues to inspire us all.”
