By Tony Nezianya
Despite Nigerian athletes not achieving podium finishes, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), has commended President Bola Tinubu, for providing the resources to support Team Nigeria in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
TheNewsZenith reports that Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) President, Habu Gumel, gave the commendation in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.
NOC Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya, in the statement, quoted Gumel as also commending Sports Minister, Sen. John Owan Enoh, for his selfless efforts towards the welfare of Team Nigeria at the Olympic Games.
Gumel said the athletes demonstrated exceptional dedication during the Games, earning eight placement Diplomas for their performances.
“Notably, a Team of 87 athletes across 12 sports was symbolically handed over to the Olympic Committee for the Games from July 26 to Aug. 11.
“Their effort fell short of achieving podium finishes, leading to disappointment among our compatriots at home and abroad.
“Within the Olympic Movement, we share in this disappointment as Nigerians.
“We are committed to taking decisive action to address the underlying issues that contributed to these sub-par performances. This will be in collaboration with other stakeholders.
“In the light of this setback, we must analyse the root causes of our shortcomings and revisit fundamental principles,” the NOC President remarked.
He said that witnessing fellow African nations like Botswana achieve historic milestones at these Games underscores the importance of long-term strategic development for athletes.
According to him, this necessitates the need for strong collaboration and a clear understanding of the various roles within the Olympic family, including partners and the government.
“Timely funding plays a pivotal role in securing podium success at the Olympic Games, without interruption.
“It necessitates continuous engagement with athletes, technical experts, professional administrators, and stakeholders throughout the four-year cycle,” TheNewsZenith quotes Gumel as saying.
As an integral component of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, he advised the federal government to empower the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to consistently prepare athletes for the Games.
Sports Federations need to conduct training sessions and organise qualification events that nurture sporting talents capable of reaching podium finishes.
Read Related News:
D’Tigress triumph over Aussies lifts Team Nigeria’s morale
Museveni urges Olympic delegation to carry Ugandan flag high
Sports, Information Ministers discuss on sports coverage
Olympic Qualifier: Nigerians in S/Africa laud S/Falcons
African Games: NOC commends Team Nigeria, FG media
“Also, the participation of the National Teams in major sporting tournaments is crucial to the preparations for the Olympic Games.
“The Commonwealth Games, the African Games, the Youth Games, the World Championships and others will give them the right exposure.
“Over the years, we have consistently provided scholarships, grants, coaching and refereeing courses through the IOC, Olympic Solidarity and Association of Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) sources to our athletes and administrators.
“Despite the overall below-par performance, certain sports showcased remarkable achievements.
For example, he said Nigeria’s basketball team, D’Tigress, displayed remarkable resilience and determination. They advanced in the tournament, defeating Australia and Canada.
“This is the first time an African team in men’s or women’s competition reached quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball event.
“Remarkably, our women’s basketball team coach, Trainer Rene Wakama, emerged as the best Coach/Manager in the Olympic Basketball Tournament.
“Unfortunately, many noteworthy stars in our Olympic team could not excel in their various sports.”
Looking ahead, Gumel advocated for early preparation and adequate funding as the critical solution.
He urged the federal government to implement a comprehensive sports-related concept and target grassroots development programmes in schools and colleges.
“This should also encompass the training and certification of sports managers (coaches, referees, administrators, etc).
“We also appeal to the private sector to complement the government’s efforts.
“A meticulous programme spanning four years towards the next Olympic Games is crucial for future success,” the NOC boss said.
Do you have a flair for Citizenship Journalism? Share stories of happenings in your area with TheNewsZenith on WhatsApp: 08033668669 or thenewszenithonline@gmail.com. Also, follow us on www.tiktok.com/@thenewszenithonline
