Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi –The master builder behind Nigeria’s scrabble renaissance

By Maxwell Kumoye

 

 

In the intricate world of Scrabble — a game of intellect, patience, and precision — few names resonate with quiet power and consistent purpose like Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi.

Now officially appointed to the Board of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), the long-serving supporter, sponsor, and strategist has finally taken a seat at the decision-making table of the sport he has nurtured for more than two decades.

For the Scrabble community in Nigeria and beyond, his inclusion is more than a routine board appointment. It is a symbolic moment — the recognition of a man whose lifelong devotion has helped sustain one of Nigeria’s most successful mind sports.

“This appointment is not just a gain for Scrabble,” said Engineer Olobatoke Aka, the immediate past president of the NSF.

“It’s a big win for Nigerian sports. Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi has been part of Scrabble’s story for years. He has invested his time, money, and ideas long before this role came. His coming on board is timely and well-deserved.”

A PILLAR OF PASSION AND SUPPORT

Long before he became a member of the NSF board, Engineer Ojofeitimi was already a familiar name in the federation’s corridors. His presence was often felt quietly — through sponsorship of tournaments, support for emerging talents, and contributions to national team preparations.

He didn’t just write cheques; he mentored players, encouraged coaches, and championed the values of discipline and excellence. To many in the Scrabble community, he embodies the rare mix of passion and professionalism that Nigerian sports so desperately needs.

“He believes in building systems, not just moments,” said Bright Idahosa, the current NSF President.

“He has done so much for Scrabble without seeking attention. Having him officially on the board is like adding a turbo engine to an already powerful car.”

OVER TWO DECADES OF UNWAVERING DEDICATION

For more than 20 years, Ojofeitimi’s commitment to Scrabble has been nothing short of remarkable. He has supported local and international championships, contributed to players’ welfare, and helped Nigeria maintain its enviable reputation as a global powerhouse in Scrabble — a sport where the country consistently ranks among the world’s best.

Those who know him closely say his motivation is simple: he loves to see people grow. Whether it’s young players competing in their first open tournament or seasoned champions defending national honour, Ojofeitimi has been there, quietly cheering and contributing.

FROM ENGINEERING BLUEPRINTS TO SPORTS LEADERSHIP

Behind the philanthropist and sports enthusiast lies a solid professional foundation. A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Lagos (1989), Engineer Ojofeitimi’s career reflects excellence and innovation.

He began as an Industrial Engineer at Michelin Nigeria Limited, later joined Smith International Incorporation, and then Halliburton Energy Services in Port Harcourt — gathering valuable international experience in oil and gas engineering operations.

In 1996, he charted his entrepreneurial path by founding LOENSE International Limited, a company that has since become a model of indigenous engineering capacity in Nigeria’s energy and infrastructure sectors.

An alumnus of the Training Institute for Dredging (IHC), Kinderdjik, Netherlands, and a member of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), he represents the bridge between technical excellence and civic impact.

“He is not just an engineer in title,” noted one of his associates. “He builds things — people, ideas, systems. That’s the kind of leadership sports needs right now.” Prince Anthony Ikolo stated.

REDEFINING THE FUTURE OF SCRABBLE IN NIGERIA

With his appointment to the NSF Board as Sponsors Representative, expectations are high. Stakeholders believe his wealth of connections in the corporate and professional world will help reposition the sport financially and structurally.

The federation, which already boasts strong grassroots and competitive presence, could soon enjoy increased sponsorship, improved player development programmes, and stronger media visibility.

“Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi doesn’t come to play,” said a veteran Scrabble player.

“He comes to transform. He has the vision, the credibility, and the follow-through. That’s why everyone is excited about this.” lkolo further explained.

A MAN OF INTEGRITY AND SERVICE

Beyond his professional credentials and financial contributions, what truly sets Ojofeitimi apart is his integrity. He is known for keeping promises, following through on initiatives, and treating sports as a public trust, not a personal platform.

Those who have worked with him describe him as a man who values discipline, accountability, and innovation — three qualities that could redefine the NSF’s administrative culture.

A TURNING POINT FOR NIGERIAN SPORTS GOVERNANCE

At a time when Nigerian sports federations are struggling with funding, structure, and credibility, the appointment of credible private-sector figures like Engineer Ojofeitimi sends a powerful message.

It shows that competence, not politics, is beginning to shape the future of sports governance in Nigeria.

“As national team's head coach Prince Anthony Ikolo puts it: “He’s not just an addition to the board — he’s an upgrade to the system. His record of service and integrity makes this a turning point for Nigerian Scrabble and for sports leadership in general.”

LOOKING AHEAD

With the new NSF board under President Bright Idahosa, supported by a blend of old and new faces, there’s optimism in the air. The federation is expected to deepen its grassroots drive, improve player welfare, and strengthen Nigeria’s global dominance.

For Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi, the journey continues — from boardrooms to Scrabble rooms, from engineering plans to sporting dreams.

He represents a new generation of Nigerian sports administrators: visionary, selfless, and deeply invested in impact over applause.

As the tiles fall into place for a new era of Scrabble in Nigeria, one thing is certain — Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi’s name will be spelled in bold, with high-value points across every board.

NIGERIA SCRABBLE FEDERATION (NSF) – NEW BOARD

★ Bright Idahosa

President & South South Rep

★ Lovejoy Ogbuokiri Ezinna

Vice President & South East Rep

MEMBERS:

★ Engineer Olobatoke Aka – International Rep

★ Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi – Sponsors Rep

★ Khaleel Rahmon Adedeji – Technical Rep

★ Hakeem Olayiwola Olaribigbe – Players Rep

★ Sani Ladan – North West Rep

★ Engineer Oladipupo Monsuru Akanbi – South West Rep

★ Abbas Mohammed – North Central Rep

★ Umar Tanimu Umar – North East Rep

★ Mrs. Millicent Isegba – NAWIS Rep

★ Dr. Mrs. Ogunbiyi – AFFAN Rep

★ Muhammad Suleiman Harande – NAPHER-SD Rep

★ Chaji Dung Pam Lodakwo – Military & Para-Military Rep