Sports
Engr Habu Gumel National Open Weightlifting Championship Begins in Abuja on Sunday
The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, (NWF) has announced dates for the Engr. Habu Gumel National Open Weightlifting Championship.
According to a release by the federation on Friday, the three-day championship named after the President, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr Habu Gumel will commence on Sunday, December 1 through Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024.
The open championship which is open to all the 36 states in the federation including the Federal Capital Territory will hold at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Each State is expected to present athletes in all the weightlifting categories in both male and female classics.
Athletes and officials are expected to arrive on Saturday ahead of the opening ceremony on Sunday. There will presentation of medals to winners in Snatch, Clean and Jerk and Total on the final day on Tuesday
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on the open championship, the President, Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) Dr Ibrahim Abdul (FCISM, OCP, CMC), said the championship which is open to all categories of lifters, is aimed at discovering new talents as well as preparing them for future engagements.
“It’s important that we start looking behind to pick and nurture talented lifters who will take over from the current ones. That is the essence of the national open championship. We want to discover new talents and incubate them for national glory. We have athletes right now who are in their prime, doing exceptionally well for the country but we felt that as a federation, there is the need for us to have a reservoir where we can nurture and groom the younger ones.
“The championship is open to all weightlifting associations in the 36 states and the FCT. We want everyone to participate. The recently concluded National Youth Games in Asaba was a stage for young athletes who displayed their potentials and the national open championship will give them added exposure as they continue to grow in the sport,”
Sports
Governor Dapo Abiodun Has Reawakened the Sleeping Giant in Sports in Ogun State, Says Hon. Bukola Olopade
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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