The Minister of Sports and Chairman National Sports Commission, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi will be awarded the prestigious African Sports Minister of the year 2013.

The Award which is organised by African Achievers Award is geared towards recognising excellent individuals that have distinguished themselves in their contribution to the growth and development of Africa.

According to the organisers, the focus is also to motivate all African leaders including prospective ones and youths through recognising persons and organisations that have contributed remarkably to the development of Africa.

NSC Directed of Media, Tony Ohaeri said in a letter of nomination to the Minister, the organisers noted that the National Sports Commission has witnessed unprecedented development and structural renaissance since Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi assumed office as Minister.

"According to them, the NSC is presently a cynosure of all eyes in Nigeria, Africa and beyond", Ohaeri said.

Other prominent Africans who have received the award include, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu, Rt. Hon. Joyce Banda (President Malawi), Hon. Thokhozani Khupe, (Deputy Prime Minister of Zimbabwe), Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, (Governor of Lagos State).

The award ceremony will take place at the Hilton Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya on Saturday 23rd February, 2013 at 5p.m.