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Olympic 2020: Your Welfare Is My Priority, Sports Minister Assures Athletes

Published

5 years ago

February 17, 2020

Minister for Youth and Sports Development Sunday Dare, assured that the welfare of athletes will not be negotiable as they prepare for both the African Athletics Championships in Algeria and the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Dare said this while addressing track and field athletes in Akure at the weekend at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) All-Comers competition.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media, John Joshua-Akanji, Dare said he will create a safe environment for the athletes to train and compete.

Government is determined there is a rapid development of sports in Nigeria as it is not only a unifying factor but also generates employment. This is why the welfare of athletes, especially they’re off-field environmental which has been taken for granted will be given priority attention.”

The Sports Minister says prompt payment of allowances and training are key to success in sports and that athletes will no longer be owed allowances either in part or in full again.

“I am sure you are all aware of the adopt a talent programme we have introduced. It is for all categories of athletes, whether foreign or home-based. I am sure one or two people here have benefitted from it. I can assure you we are expanding the net to capture more athletes, Dare promised, adding that government all over the world partners with individuals and corporate bodies to develop sports.

”This is what we are doing. Gone are the days when athletes wait till competition venue to get training grants that ended up to be counterproductive.’.

“I am impressed with what I have seen here and I can assure you that we will encourage the Athletics Federation of Nigeria to provide more competitions for you to keep them busy, evaluate your performances and ensure the needed growth is achieved.

The Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development will also provide the necessary support to the AFN to ensure a smooth and efficient administration of the sport. We will not interfere in the day-to-day running of the administration of the AFN. We will only collaborate and provide the necessary intervention especially when the team is going for international competitions where they will be representing Nigeria.”

The AFN All-Comers witnessed a huge turnout of athletes who expressed their appreciation to the federation for giving them a quality event to assess how far they have gone in their training as they prepare for two major events this year.

Enoch Adegoke, Emmanuel Arowolo, Favour-Ofili, Ifeanyi Ojeli, Joy Udo-Gabriel, Oyeniyi Abejoye and a host of other national athletes who represented Nigeria at the African Games in Rabat, Morocco last year gave glimpses of what Nigerians should expect this year.

Meanwhile, the AFN has debunked rumors that the few athletes who attended the illegal competition in Ozoro in Delta state will be sanctioned.

“That is just a figment of the imagination of people who are bent on distracting us but we are focussed,’ said Olamide George, president of the AFN.

“The very few athletes who were in Ozoro traveled overnight to Akure to participate in our All-Comers competition after realizing they have been misled into going to Ozoro.”

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Smile Attracts Smiles Foundation Reached Out To Widows In Abuja

Published

2 days ago

December 24, 2024

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Widows and disadvantaged women residents in the Kubwa Community of the FCT in Abuja had reasons to smile despite the hardship in the Country, as Smile Attracts Smiles Foundation distributed food items and wrappers to them.

The event, which took place on the in Kubwa as part of foundation’s usual habit to celebrate Christmas with needy especially widows, caught the attention of the residents of the community.

Owner of the foundation Bukola Adewumi who was represented at the occasion of distribution of the items expressed that, At Smile Attracts Smiles Foundation, we know that the journey of widowhood is not easy.

According to her, the challenges can feel overwhelming, and sometimes, the burden may seem unbearable. But let me assure you, you are not alone. We are here to walk this journey with you, hand in hand, heart to heart.

“This foundation was born out of a personal story and a deep-seated passion to make a difference.

“I firmly believe that God has entrusted me with this mission to stand in the gap for widows, just as He promises in His Word not to abandon those in need.

“Smile Attracts Smiles Foundation is more than an organization; it is a family, a community where widows find support, encouragement, and empowerment to rebuild their lives and rise stronger than ever.

“Here, we provide practical help, emotional support, and spiritual encouragement. Whether it’s financial assistance, skill-building programs, or just a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on, our goal is to ensure that no widow feels forgotten or forsaken.

“We aim to restore smiles, rekindle hope, and remind you that your life is far from over.

“Today, I encourage you to keep your head high, your heart open, and your faith unwavering. Know that you are loved, cherished, and valued beyond measure. Together, we can create a future where smiles replace sorrow.” She promised.

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