The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, has assured Nigeria’s contingent to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar of total support.
Gumel gave the assurance in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27, while receiving the handover of the contingent ahead of the Games.
He expressed confidence in the athletes selected by the National Sports Commission (NSC), noting that Nigeria would build on its impressive record at the Youth Olympic Games since the inaugural edition in Singapore.
The NOC President commended the NSC Chairman and Director General for their commitment to the athletes’ preparation, especially in the areas of training, welfare and kitting.
“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,” Gumel said.
“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.”
Gumel assured the NSC leadership of the NOC’s readiness to work closely with the Commission to ensure the athletes perform at their best.
He charged the athletes to stay away from doping and all forms of misconduct, stressing the need to maintain Nigeria’s image.
“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,” he stated.
“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.”
He also lauded the NSC’s decision to reward medal-winning athletes with cash incentives, describing it as a morale booster.
Gumel urged the athletes to see the Games as a pathway to future Olympic success, noting that their participation already qualifies them as Olympians.
“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 added.
The NOC boss expressed optimism that Nigeria would make a strong impression at the October 31 opening ceremony and wished the team success at the Games.
