By Tony Nezianya
The Nigeria Athletes Commission has vowed to make a positive difference when they compete at this year’s Olympic Games.
Their resolve was declared as the captains of the various sports federations and the Nigeria Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission gathered for their virtual meeting on June 29 2024.
A communiqué released shortly after the meeting showed a palpable excitement and anticipation as the meeting lasted.
The commission expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed leadership of the nation, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sports Minister, the NOC President, and the Permanent Secretary, for their unwavering support and contributions toward the resounding success of the African Games in Accra, Ghana.
The commission took pride in the patriotism, competitiveness, and top-podium performances of the Team Nigeria athletes, who had brought glory to their nation.
The Minister’s commitment to timely payment of allowances and bonuses for the athletes who participated in the African Games was commended, and the commission pledged to continue its efforts to ensure that all outstanding payments were made.
As the focus shifted to the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, the commission assured that preparations were already in top gear.
Early camping and training tours had been meticulously planned, and the commission had proactively initiated dialogues with the Sports Ministry to address critical issues such as medical insurance, a befitting kit for Team Nigeria, and the general welfare of the athletes.
The commission’s annual Athletes Forum, scheduled for July 8 to July 9, 2024, in Abuja, was eagerly anticipated as a platform that would address the concerns of the athletes, including life after sports, athletes’ marketing, retirement benefits, and athletes’ insurance policies.
The commission also expressed its desire to work closely with the Federation and Elite Athletes Department (FEAD) of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development to advocate for better treatment and support for the athletes.
As the meeting drew close, the air was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
The captains of the various sports federations and the Nigeria Olympic Committee Athletes Commission knew that they were on the cusp of a historic moment, and they were ready to lead their team to glory on the world’s biggest sporting stage – the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The communique was jointly signed by three officials – Joseph Udale, Blessed Onyeali, Grace.
