Tokyo 2025: Team Nigeria to Tokyo in high spirit, says Okowa
..kits suppliers to reward medalists for podium finishing
President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa has confirmed that Nigerian athletes competing in the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo are in high spirits, aiming for podium success.
In a statement, Okowa disclosed that alleged issues surrounding the competition kits were exaggerated and mere distractions in the camp, insisting that all athletes are in a positive mood and ready to compete.
“The complete kits have been provided. I met with the athletes and technical team. The issues of their Olympics training grants were raised too and I am happy that a good number of them have received them.
Here in Tokyo, they are accommodated in one of the best hotels with excellent meals and adequate security. Everything is in place and our athletes have no reason to complain. I can tell you they are wearing their new kits,” Okowa said.
The AFN President who announced that the Federation was in discussion with HiRacer for a new kits sponsorship deal attributed the controversy to a misunderstanding, resulting from the athletes’ personal kits preference.
Okowa, said the athletes were briefed about this new kits and accompanying benefits from the sponsors to those with podium finishing.
Under the temporary agreement, the Nigerian athlete with gold medal will receive a sum of $30,000, silver gets $20,000 while bronze medalist get $10,000.00 from the deal.
“For now, there is no formal agreement with HiRacer but we are talking with them. There are other countries under this kit sponsors too here in Tokyo. The kits they supplied us were part of our last minute discussions.
“Under the current plan, athletes will earn financial rewards for podium appearances while competing in the new brand. I do not want to go to the issues with Puma. That happened before we came on board.”
The AFN President also commented on the alleged large contingent in Tokyo, pointing out that AFN arrived in Tokyo with 15 athletes, four technical officials, two medical staff, and two administrators, and that any other individuals in Tokyo were there at their own expense.
The AFN President who dismissed the falsehood of any jamboree to Tokyo, said Team Nigeria’s delegation was in line with the World Athletics quota for the country.
He appealed to all Nigerians to support the athletics team, stressing that their prayers and total support would inspire the team to achieve an excellent performance.
