Senator John Owan Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, has urged Nigerian athletes to compete with determination and strive for podium performances at the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Speaking at the official handover and farewell ceremony for Team Nigeria, Senator Enoh emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and representing the country with pride. This article expands on the minister’s remarks and highlights the government’s support for the athletes’ preparations.

During the ceremony in Abuja, Senator Enoh addressed the Team Nigeria contingent, encouraging them to aim for podium finishes at the Paris Olympics. He stressed the significance of hard work and dedication in achieving success on the international stage. The minister’s call to action reflects the government’s commitment to excellence in sports and the desire to showcase Nigeria’s athletic talent to the world.

Senator Enoh announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has fully approved the budget for the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. This demonstrates the President’s unwavering commitment to supporting Nigerian athletes and fostering a culture of excellence in sports. By approving the budget, President Tinubu has shown his belief in the potential of Team Nigeria to make the nation proud on the global stage.

The minister emphasized that the athletes have a responsibility to regard themselves as ambassadors of Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of discipline, honesty, commitment, and responsibility in representing the country effectively. As ambassadors, the athletes are expected to exhibit exemplary behavior and perform creditably well, not only for personal achievements but also to promote the positive image of Nigeria to the international community.

Senator Enoh acknowledged the efforts of the government, the Ministry of Sports Development, and other agencies in providing foreign training tours for athletes from various sporting disciplines. These tours aim to ensure that the athletes are physically, technically, and tactically prepared for the challenges they will face in Paris. The minister emphasized the importance of taking advantage of these opportunities and maximizing their potential to improve performance.

Expressing confidence in the athletes, Senator Enoh stated that his interactions with them have left no doubt in his mind that they will meet the high expectations set for them. With the support of the government, the commitment of the athletes, and the collective effort of stakeholders, there is optimism that Team Nigeria will excel and make the nation proud at the Paris Olympics.

As the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh charges Team Nigeria to compete favorably and achieve podium performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the athletes are inspired to give their best. With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s full approval of the budget and the emphasis on discipline, commitment, and responsibility, the government is showing its unwavering support for Nigerian athletes.

The foreign training tours and the athletes’ determination to succeed contribute to the optimism surrounding Team Nigeria’s prospects. As the athletes prepare to represent the country, the nation eagerly anticipates their achievements and hopes for a successful outing at the upcoming Paris Olympics.