Special Correspondent
The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has honoured Rizwan Aftab Ahmed for his outstanding contributions to the welfare and development of athletes in Pakistan. Recognised for his financial, medical, and nutritional support, Rizwan has played a pivotal role in elevating the performance of national athletes, most notably Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem, whom he supported during training and medical engagements both in Pakistan and England.
Speaking at the ceremony, POA Secretary General Muhammad Khalid Mahmood praised Rizwan’s dedication, describing him as a true supporter of sports and sportsmen. “His contributions, particularly towards Olympian Arshad Nadeem and many other elite-level athletes, reflect his deep love for the country and its sporting future,” Mahmood said. In recognition of his services, Rizwan was presented with the POA’s highest trophy shield.
Expressing gratitude, Rizwan described the honour as a source of motivation to continue working for athletes. He reflected on his family’s legacy of public service, noting that his maternal great-grandfather Raja Ghazanfar Ali Khan served alongside Muhammad Ali Jinnah and was also President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation. His grandfather, Iftikhar Ahmed Shah, represented Pakistan in swimming at the 1948 London Olympics, while his father, Prof. Dr. Aftab Ahmed, pioneered orthopaedic surgery in the country.
Rizwan emphasized that his role in Arshad Nadeem’s success was modest, attributing the athlete’s achievements to his own hard work, parental prayers, and the guidance of coach Salman Butt, along with medical support from his cousin Dr. Ali Bajwa. He reaffirmed his commitment to Pakistani sports, announcing that as CEO of ACTIVIT and Director of National Hospital DHA Lahore, he would continue to make medical facilities available to the POA and its athletes.
“I wish to see Pakistani athletes achieve great success at the Olympic Games,” Rizwan said. “It will always be my honour and privilege to serve Pakistan’s athletes and help the nation achieve glory on the world stage.”
This recognition by the POA highlights the importance of private support in strengthening Pakistan’s sporting ecosystem and ensuring athletes receive the comprehensive assistance they need to excel internationally.
