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Former Nigeria basketball international, Chief Felix Akiga (JP), has expressed appreciation to the Sportsville Awards organisers following his selection for a Special Recognition Award, marking a rare departure from his long-held stance of declining honours.
Speaking for the first time after being notified by the Awards Committee, Akiga, who made his mark as proprietor of Gboko Giants and later Gboko Heats in the Nigeria Premier Basketball League during the early 2000s, said his decision to accept the award is influenced by the credibility and vision of the organisers.
Describing himself as a private individual, Akiga noted that he has traditionally preferred his work to speak for itself rather than seek public recognition. However, he explained that the Sportsville Award stood out because it acknowledges not only his contributions to basketball but also his achievements beyond the sport.
“I am more of a very private person who does not accept awards. I prefer what I do to speak for me,” he said. “But this award is different because it recognises not just my involvement in basketball, but also my efforts outside the game.”
Emphasising the importance of life after sports, Akiga urged athletes to prepare for careers beyond active competition. During his time in basketball administration, he combined his sporting commitments with investments in the hospitality industry, a move he believes is essential for long-term sustainability.
“As sportsmen and women, we can’t all be coaches as important as the job is but we should look beyond it when we retire from the game,” he added.
Now a successful entrepreneur, Akiga operates a network of budget hotels across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. In Nigeria, his portfolio includes Royal Choice Inn locations in major University such as UNN Nsukka, ABU Zaria, UniBen, Benin, and UniJos alongside Royal Choice Hotels in Abuja and Obudu.
He described the recognition as encouraging, noting that being acknowledged for success outside sports should inspire others to pursue similar paths.
“It is heartwarming to know that the little things we do at Choice Leisure Limited are seen,” Akiga said. “If my journey as a former player and administrator, now succeeding outside sports, can motivate others, then I am happy to accept the award, he concluded.”
