Athletes’ Commission promises better outing at Paris Olympics
The Nigeria Athletes Commission has vowed to make a positive difference when they compete at this year’s Olympic Games.
In a Communique issued after their visual meeting involving captains of the various Sports Federations and the Nigeria Olympic Committee held on June, 29, 2024, the Commission noted that this year’s Olympics will be better than previous ones.
The commission also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sports Minister, Senator John Enoh, the NOC President, Engr Habu Gumel and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Tinuke Matti for their unwavering support and contributions toward the resounding success at the African Games in Accra, Ghana.
It noted that it takes pride in the patriotism, competitiveness, and top-podium performances of the Team Nigeria athletes, who had brought glory to their nation just as they commended the Minister’s commitment to timely payment of allowances and bonuses for the athletes who participated in the African Games and 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”, noted the communique.
The Commission further stated that it’s annual Athletes Forum, scheduled for July 8 to July 9, 2024, in Abuja, is 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.
The Communique concluded by saying that 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.
