Sports
Tokyo Olympics: NFF congratulates Dare, Sports Ministry
The Nigeria Football Federation has felicitated with the FederalMinistry of Youth and Sports Development and the person of theMinister of Youth and Sports, Mr Sunday Dare on Nigeria’s outing atthe 32nd Olympics which ended in Tokyo, Japan few days ago.
In a press statement issued by NFF Director of Communication Mr Ademola Olajire on Tuesday in Abuja stated Nigeria earned one silver and one bronze medals from the Games, with aslew of promising performances as a number of athletes reached thefinal of their events. For the first time since 1996, a Nigerianathlete was in the final of the glamour event of the Games – the men’s100m sprint. Young hurdler Oluwatobiloba Amusan narrowly missednetting a medal as she finished fourth in the women’s high hurdlesfinal.
“The Nigeria contingent may not have returned with the harvest ofmedals that many hoped for, but there are bright lights all around andsome brilliant individual performances that give hope for the nextGames in Paris.
At the end of the day, the silver and bronze medalsearned in Tokyo make the just-ended Olympics Nigeria’s best outing in13 years. That is commendable.
“The Sports Minister, in his personal capacity, and the Ministry ofSports as a body worked their socks off.
The Honourable Minister was exemplary; he explained, encouraged and empathized with the athletesas necessary and led the cheer at most of the venues where Nigerianathletes competed.
“He is such a wonderful breath of fresh air from the immediateMinister of Sports who rather constituted himself into a bulwalk anddivisive force against Nigerian athletes at the last Olympics inBrazil. We do not wish to recall his inglorious remarks against thefootball team when the team was camping in the USA. That football teameventually ended up winning Team Nigeria’s only medal – a bronze – atthe Games.”
Pinnick was particularly delighted at the performance ofmulti-talented Ese Brume, who won the women’s long jump: “I am happyfor Ese (Brume) because I played a role in her discovery andnurturing. I am fulfilled at her career progression and I believe shewill be there in Paris in three years’ time to win the gold medal.
“I also pledge that our football teams will return to the Games inthree years’ time in Paris and compete favourably for the goldmedals.”
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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