President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engineer Habu Gumel, has assured Nigeria’s contingent to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, of the country’s support.
Gumel gave the assurance while receiving the handover of the Nigerian contingent ahead of the Games in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27.
He expressed confidence in the athletes selected by the National Sports Commission (NSC) adding that the nation would build on its previous performances at the Youth Olympic Games.
The NOC president commended the NSC chairman and director general for their efforts in preparing the athletes, particularly in training, welfare and kitting.
Gumel said: “Nigeria has been participating in the Youth Olympic Games since the beginning in Singapore, and we have been doing very well. I believe this time around we are going to do well.
“I want to thank the Chairman and the Director General of the National Sports Commission for what they have done in training, welfare and kitting the athletes. I am so happy with this, and I am sure that by the time they arrive in Dakar, everybody will look at them well.”
He also assured the NSC leadership that the NOC would work with the commission to support the athletes and help them perform to the best of their abilities.
Gumel urged the athletes to avoid doping and other misconduct, stressing that Nigeria would be proud to return home with a clean contingent.
He further advised the athletes not to allow anyone to persuade them to engage in activities that could compromise their integrity or bring the country into disrepute.
He said: “I want to assure you that we will take a clean contingent to Dakar and bring back a clean contingent to Nigeria again.
“The total number of the contingent that they have given us is the total number that will return to Nigeria. Nobody will disappear.
“Remain clean, behave well and make Nigeria proud. It is very, very important. The National Sports Commission and the Nigerian Olympic Committee are there to assist you in any area you need our support.”
The NOC president also welcomed the NSC’s announcement of cash rewards for athletes who win medals at the Games, describing the initiative as an important source of encouragement.
He encouraged the young athletes to see their participation in Dakar as a stepping stone towards future Olympic appearances, noting that they could become members of the Olympian Association.
Gumel said: “By the time you return to Nigeria, consider yourselves already Olympians. You will call yourselves Olympians and join the Olympian Association. Participation is key and very important. You are going to be the future Olympians of this country.”
He expressed optimism that Nigeria would make a strong impression at the opening ceremony, scheduled for October 31, particularly through the contingent’s outfit and march past.
He praised the kitting provided for the athletes and wished them success at the Games, assuring them that the NOC would work with the NSC to ensure their welfare and participation.
