On Tuesday, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) announced its comprehensive preparations to surpass previous Olympic achievements.
President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel stated this while receiving reports on the committee’s constitution review and the refurbishment of sports infrastructure, notably at the Amuwo Odofin Olympic Sports Village in Lagos.
Gumel highlighted that 80 athletes have already qualified for the upcoming Olympics, with an additional five expected to join the team pending their qualification. He emphasized the importance of this meeting to update Nigerians on their progress for the Paris Olympics scheduled from July 26th to August 11th and to review the committee’s reports for the NOC’s advancement.
“We have about 80 athletes that have qualified for the Olympics and are preparing them for training both locally and internationally,” Gumel said. “Our athletes are training in various countries, including Germany and America. We aim for podium success with serious collaboration between the Ministry of Sports Development and the NOC. The last time we won two gold medals was in Atlanta, USA, in 1996 by Chioma Ajunwa in the long jump and the U-23 Dream Team. We are working hard to break this jinx in Paris.”
NOC Secretary-General, Tunde Popoola called on the Federal Government to release sufficient and timely funds to ensure the desired results at the Olympics. He noted the improved synergy between the NOC and the Ministry of Sports, which has significantly enhanced their preparation efforts. Popoola also urged for sustained positive media coverage to support the athletes’ morale and performance.
The NOC’s strategic efforts are focused on breaking the longstanding gold medal drought since Nigeria’s last two golds in 1996.
