Former Nigerian sprinter Mary Onyali has been appointed ambassador of Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC).
Also appointed at a ceremony held on Thursday was retired Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi, while 61 staff members of the college received long service awards.
The event, which combined the conferment and investiture of NTIC ambassadors with the presentation of long service awards, brought together educators and administrators as the institution marked 28 years of operation across campuses in Lagos, Kano, Yobe, Kaduna and the Federal Capital Territory.
Managing Director of NTIC Feyzullah Bilgin said the college’s growth over the years had been sustained by staff commitment.
“I would like to appreciate all NTIC staff members, particularly the 61 individuals who have been part of our journey for more than 15 years,” Bilgin said. “Your patience, dedication and perseverance are recognised and valued.”
The 61 honourees received appreciation packages, including 13 months’ salary.
Bilgin said the strength of any school system depends on its teachers, especially at nursery, primary and secondary levels, adding that NTIC operates both the Nigerian curriculum and the Cambridge curriculum while investing in staff development.
Beyond the staff recognition, the ceremony featured the appointment of Onyali and Abdullahi as ambassadors of the institution.
Bilgin said the appointments were aligned with the college’s vision.
“Their conferment is not merely honorary; it is intentional and educational. They serve as living reference points for our students,” he said.
In her response, Mary Onyali linked the appointment to her interest in youth empowerment and education.
“One of the main reasons I returned to Nigeria after retiring from active sports was youth empowerment and education,” she said. “NTIC has achieved standards, and we will work to expand its impact even further.”
In a citation, the college said Abdullahi’s career in the Nigerian Air Force reflected discipline and service.
Onyali represented Nigeria at five Olympic Games between 1988 and 2004 and won a bronze medal in the 200 metres at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
She also won medals at the Commonwealth Games and the All Africa Games during her career.
After retiring from active sports, she became involved in youth development and athletics administration.
