PARIS OLYMPIC GAMES
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has reflected on the outgoing year, 2023, describing it as a successful year for sports development in the country.
Addressing a virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM), the NOC President, Engr. Habu Gumel, highlighted to the Olympic family in his report for the year 2022, the Committee’s achievements and plans for the future.
Gumel expressed satisfaction for the support of all members, including the Executive Committee and the Executive Board, Tony Nezianya, the NOC spokesman, said in a statement given to Persecondnews.
While paying special tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Gumel, who is also an IOC member, used the occasion to appeal to all stakeholders – the Federation presidents, and the Ministry of Sports — to ensure Nigeria’s strong participation in three major games coming up in 2024 — Youth Winter Games, the African Games and the Olympics.
‘’We need a new result at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; by improving on the 1996 Atlanta Games, where Nigeria won two Gold medals.”
This was the games that Chioma Ajunwa won gold through her 7.12-metre long jump and the gold by our soccer ‘Dream Team’ led by Nwankwo Kanu.
Gumel also lauded patrons, trustees, and members of various Commissions and Committees for their contributions in achieving the Committee’s goals.
He reflected on the activities of 2022, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to uniting the Olympic family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement.
Gumel, who is an honorary life member of the International Olympic Committee, highlighted the successful acquisition of five hectares of land for the building of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja, a long-awaited achievement.
He also mentioned the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos, a significant step towards the development of sport facilities.
To support the activation of Olympic Movement activities, the Committee reconstituted various Commissions, with a focus on involving members from the National Federations.
”Despite financial constraints, the President expressed satisfaction with the dedication and hard work of some Commissions in achieving their objectives, ” Gumel said.
The President welcomed Sen. John Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, and expressed his joy and in presenting the Report of Activities for the year 2022.
The report acknowledged the XXII Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
The President also mentioned the successful visit of the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria, marking the seventh consecutive visit since 2002.
The Baton’s journey included stops at various locations, including Abuja, Jabi Lake, and the British High Commission, before departing Nigeria. It was a moment of pride for the Olympic Family to witness the Baton’s presence in their country.
The report discussed the Gather Prepare & Sustain (GAPS) programme, a crucial initiative by the Commonwealth Games Federation for Para athletes.
Nigeria was among the 13 African Commonwealth countries benefiting from the programme. However, the report also mentioned the unfortunate passing of coach Patrick Anaeto during the programme, a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and coaches.
The highlight of the report is the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games, winning a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals.
The President praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work, placing Nigeria in the seventh position in the overall medals table.
The report then shifted focus to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, where Nigeria participated in Ski Sports. The qualification pathway was discussed, with one athlete successfully qualifying through the continental representation quota.
It was also noted that Dr Marian Mkpo Odun received a scholarship to attend the IOC Diploma Course in Sports Medicine, contributing to the development of Nigerian sports medicine.
Other events, such as the celebration of Olympic Day, the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, and various seminars and workshops, were also highlighted in the report, underscoring the Committee’s commitment to the growth and development of Nigerian sports.
He extended his appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Grand Patron of NOC, for their unwavering support.
He wished the General Assembly productive deliberations and extended warm wishes for the season.
This report signifies the remarkable achievements of Nigerian sports in 2022 and set the foundation for future endeavours in Olympic sports in the country.
As part of the highlights of the event, the Account Audit firm of Yerima & Associates was re-appointed for another term.
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