As dozens of world leaders  are gathered in Johannesburg to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela,  President of Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, Engr Sani M. Ndanusa has paid glowing tribute to the former South African icon for choosing sports as an instrument  to unite people in peace and friendship.

In a condolence letter to the President of South African Olympic Committee, Ndanusa said that the world over have learnt a lesson of humility, love and friendship from the Great Madiba who chose sports over violence.

The NOC President’s letter was coming just as International Olympic Committee, IOC, President Thomas Bach called on all 204 National Olympic Committees around the world to honour Nelson Mandela by flying their flags at half-mast on the day of his funeral on Sunday, December 15.

Calling Mr Mandela a great friend of sport and a hero of humanity, President Bach said all representatives of the Olympic Movement should be inspired by the example set by Mr Mandela and proud of the important role sport played in his life and the rebuilding of South Africa.

Engr Ndanusa harped on Mandela’s  remarkable fight against oppression, and his love for all noting that the outpouring of emotions and respect by the world showed that Mandela was an acclaimed man of peace.