Sports

Sports Minister Applauds Team Nigeria For Remarkable Performances, Nigeria Shines in Athletics, Boxing

Published

3 years ago

March 21, 2024

Nigeria Beats Ghana in Accra 21 Years After Abuja Loss, 37 Years 400m Record Broken

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has applauded the outstanding performances of Nigerian athletes at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana. After Day 3 of athletics, Nigeria ran the show securing additional four gold medals and breaking records.

Senator Enoh lauded the athletes for their achievements, emphasizing the pride they bring to the nation. “I salute our gallant sportsmen and women who have performed exceptionally well in Accra thus far,” said Enoh. “Okezie broke the 37-year jinx in the 400m, our sprinters excelled in the finals, and our boxers demonstrated our strength and vigour. These moments are priceless to us as a nation.”

The talk of the town was Nigeria’s triumph in the men and women’s 4 x 100m relay. The men’s team notably avenged a loss to Ghana 21 years ago, emerging victorious with a time of 38.41 seconds. The women’s team secured gold with a time of 43.05 seconds, leaving Liberia and Ghana to claim silver and bronze, respectively.

Chidi Okezie’s historic win in the men’s 400m marked a significant milestone for Nigerian athletics. Okezie became the first Nigerian man to clinch the title since Innocent Egbunike in 1987, breaking a 37-year record. Additionally, world record holder Tobi Amusan dominated the women’s 100m hurdles, reaffirming her status as a premier athlete.

In boxing, Team Nigeria displayed exceptional prowess, winning all five semifinal bouts. Zainab Adeshina, Joy Ojo, Mbata Patricia, Omole Dolapo, and Olaore Adams emerged victorious, advancing to the final of their respective events.

Senator Enoh expressed pride in the athletes’ performances and urged them to maintain maximum concentration in the remaining events. As Nigeria continues to shine in other sports, the nation stands united in celebrating the achievements of its sporting heroes.

“Our athletes have showcased remarkable talent and resilience at the African Games. Their achievements exemplify the spirit of excellence that defines Nigerian sports. I applaud their dedication and urge them to remain focused as they strive for further success,” Enoh concluded.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

8 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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