Ghana 2024: FG hails Team Nigeria for remarkable performances as Nigeria shines in athletics, boxing

The Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh, has lauded the impressive performances of Team Nigeria athletes at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana.

Persecondnews reports that after Day 3 of athletics, Nigeria ran the show, securing an additional four gold medals and shattering records with ease.

In a statement by Diana-Mary Nsan, Special Assistant Media to the Minister of Sports Development, Enoh lauded the athletes for their achievements, emphasizing the pride they bring to the nation.

“I salute our gallant sportsmen and women who have performed exceptionally well in Accra thus far.

“Okezie broke the 37-year jinx in the 400m, our sprinters excelled in the finals, and our boxers demonstrated our strength and vigour. These moments are priceless to us as a nation,” he said.

Accra was agog with Nigeria’s triumph in the men’s and women’s 4 x 100m relay.

The men’s team avenged the loss to Ghana 21 years ago, emerging victorious with a time of 38.41 seconds. The women’s team secured gold with a time of 43.05 seconds, leaving Liberia and Ghana to claim silver and bronze, respectively.

Chidi Okezie’s historic win in the men’s 400m marked a significant milestone for Nigerian athletics. Okezie became the first Nigerian man to clinch the title since Innocent Egbunike in 1987, breaking a 37-year record.

Additionally, world record holder Tobi Amusan dominated the women’s 100m hurdles, reaffirming her supremacy as one of Africa’s premier athletes.

In boxing, Team Nigeria displayed exceptional prowess, winning all five semifinal bouts. Zainab Adeshina, Joy Ojo, Mbata Patricia, Omole Dolapo, and Olaore Adams emerged victorious, advancing to the final of their respective events.

The Minister, visibly happy with Nigeria’s exploits at the games, expressed pride in the athletes’ performances and urged them to maintain “maximum concentration in the remaining events.”

As Nigeria continues to shine in other sports, the nation stands united in celebrating the achievements of its sporting heroes.

He added: “Our athletes have showcased remarkable talent and resilience at the African Games.

“Their achievements exemplify the spirit of excellence that defines Nigerian sports. I applaud their dedication and urge them to remain focused as they strive for further success.”