The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced cash rewards for Team Nigeria athletes competing at the ongoing CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championship in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.
According to a statement by the Director of Press at NSC, Dr. Kehinde Ajayi, on Friday, the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Bukola Olopade, disclosed the incentives during Day 2 of the championship, praising the athletes’ dedication and performances.
Persecondnews reports that athletes will receive ₦1 million for each gold medal, ₦750,000 for silver, and ₦500,000 for bronze medals won at the championship.
Dikko explained the significance of immediate motivation, saying, “Look at the way our athletes have been performing in this championship, you will see that commitment and dedication in their faces.
“And we will not stop at giving our athletes every reason to always want to compete for our great country.”
On his part, Olopade pointed out the essence of athlete welfare, saying, “We need to always take care of our athletes and when we do that, they will take care of us by winning medals.”
He added that the championship is part of building the young athletes for future competitions, including the upcoming Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Team Nigeria has been dominating the championship, with notable performances in the 100m finals.
In the Girls’ U18 100m final, Miracle Oluebube Ezechukwu stormed to gold in 11.88 seconds, followed closely by Rosemary Nwankwo in 11.96s, and Mariam Jegede claiming bronze in 12.20s.
The Nigerian team also excelled in the mixed 4x400m relay, pulling off a dramatic victory.
Persecondnews reports that the NSC’s cash rewards demonstrate its commitment to nurturing young talent and strengthening Nigeria’s performances on the global athletics stage.
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