Tokyo 2020: ‘Win Clean Medals’ FG urges Team Nigeria

Published

3 years ago

July 6, 2021

…First batch departs for Japan

JOEL AJAYI

Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has urged Team Nigeria to avoid doping and compete clean to win medals for Nigeria at the Tokyo Olympics.

The minister gave the charge on Tuesday in Abuja while bidding farewell to the first batch of Team Nigeria to Japan.

Dare said the Federal Government had committed a lot of resources to ensure adequate preparation that would make the athletes win medals.

According to him, our departure for the Games today is an evidence that working in unison, we can collectively achieve whatever we set our minds to achieve as humans.

“I enjoin you to make the nation proud at the Games by competing clean and bringing glory to your fatherland,” he said.

He assured that plans had been concluded for President Muhammadu Buhari to also bid farewell to some of the athletes while unveiling the official Team Nigeria uniform.

“The president would formally unveil the official Team Nigeria uniform for the Games during the presentation of the contingent to his excellency,”

Team Nigeria will be traveling to Kizarazu city in Japan for the pre-Games training camp in four batches.

The first batch that left for the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja immediately after the ceremony comprised canoe, rowing and table tennis athletes, coaches and officials.

The second batch comprising athletics, taekwondo and wrestling will depart on July 13.

The third batch of gymnastics and badminton will leave on July 17, while the last batch comprising male and female basketball teams departs on July 19.

Earlier, president, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel, said so far 58 athletes had qualified for the Games, to be accompanied by 22 coaches in nine sports.

He stressed the need for the athletes to be good ambassadors of the country while respecting all the COVID-19 protocols at the Games.

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Governor Dapo Abiodun Has Reawakened the Sleeping Giant in Sports in Ogun State, Says Hon. Bukola Olopade

Published

3 hours ago

December 22, 2024

The Gleamer

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stated that Ogun State is witnessing a transformative era in sports development under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the state prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Ogun 2024.”

Speaking about the governor’s achievements, Hon. Olopade stated, “Even before the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was constituted, when Nilayo Sports Management bidded on behalf of Ogun State, it was evident Ogun was ready. During recent inspections, technical directors from various states applauded the facilities they saw. It was gratifying to know Ogun State’s readiness was evident.”

Reflecting on past challenges, the former commissioner for sports in Ogun, said the legacy he left after office was destroyed and sports looked doomed “until Governor Dapo Abiodun started reawakening the sleeping giant in sports.”

Governor Abiodun’s administration has prioritized youth empowerment through sports, focusing on grassroots promotion, infrastructure development and talent development. His vision for sports transcends mere entertainment, aiming to build an industry that empowers the youth and attracts investments to Ogun State.

Preparations for the National Sports Festival have been ongoing in the State, with massive renovations and constructions across the state. The MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta has seen its VIP section upgraded, the football pitch replaced, tracks have undergone refurbishment, and a brand-new swimming pool is being constructed.

Two state-of-the-art tennis courts and handball courts have been built to reduce reliance on the Abeokuta Sports Club facilities, while the Alake Sports Complex, Ijeja, Abeokuta has been undergoing comprehensive renovation.

Hon. Olopade emphasized the governor’s commitment to sustaining and advancing Ogun State’s sporting legacy. “Governor Abiodun’s investments in sports and youth empowerment are unparalleled. His administration has a clear vision to turn sports into a thriving industry, and the successful bid to host Ogun 2024 is a testament to his dedication.”

With the festival drawing closer, Ogun State’s commitment to excellence is evident. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s efforts have not only revived sports in the state but also laid the foundation for a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.

Gateway Games 2024 has promises written all over it, to be a landmark event, showcasing the state’s readiness and Governor Abiodun’s transformative impact on sports development.

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