By Goodness Ndukuba, Enugu on July 13, 2023

The Athletes' Commission of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (ACNOC) at the end of its Athletes Olympians Forum have made some important decisions to help growth of sports in the country. 

Rising from its Athletes Forum on Wednesday in Abuja they mandated their leadership to as a matter of urgency propose a suitable health insurance schemes for adoption by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development. 

They stressed that this would be an import policy on national athletes.

The communique is based on its meeting held on July 10, 2023 held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja. 

The Forum also demanded that it's leadership request the participation of the Commission at the upcoming National Youth Games in ensuring that the young athletes in the area of education and advocacy.

The NOA congress expressed their gratitude to the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) for their unwavering support toward the association and its continued backing has been crucial for the NOA's progress and success.

Recognizing the need to enhance the development of sports in Nigeria, the congress identified the necessity to establish a law or an Act that supports sports policies and drives its growth.

This, they noted, would help elevate sports to the level of a business and ensuring its sustainability as well as prosperity.

Another crucial aspect discussed during the congress was the accessibility and usage of sports funding specifically for sports development. 

It was agreed that direct access to these funds would greatly contribute to the improvement of sports in the country.

The congress also acknowledged the initiative to bring back the National Sports Commission, which would inject dynamism into the administration of sports. 

However, they requested that someone with a strong background in sports be appointed to head the commission, ensuring its effectiveness.

Recognizing the upcoming Olympic Games, the congress ratified the commencing of work on Project Olympic 2024. This project will aim to prepare Nigerian Olympians for the upcoming Games and enhance their performance.

To address the financial challenges faced by some Olympians, the congress agreed to create an intervention fund. 

This fund would provide financial assistance to Olympians who were in need, ensuring they can continue their sports journey without financial burdens.

Additionally, the congress decided to engage the World Olympians Association (WOA) to explore opportunities for vocational training for Olympians who may not have access to formal education. 

This would enable them to acquire relevant skills and contribute to society beyond their athletic careers.

The congress, then, directed the National Executive Council (NEC) to engage relevant bodies and stakeholders in formulating a policy to incorporate sports journalism as a dedicated course in mass communication across Nigerian tertiary institutions. 

This would help cultivate future sports journalists and promote better coverage of sporting events.

In a show of solidarity, the congress unanimously passed a vote of confidence on its president, Olumide Oyedeji OLY, and his National Executive Council, acknowledging their leadership and dedication to the NOA.

The congress highlighted the importance for Olympians to apply for 'OLY Honors', which would grant them access to various benefits. 

This encourages Olympians to strive for excellence in their fields and reap the rewards of their hard work and dedication.

Source Daily Sports Nigeria

Posted July 13, 2023

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