Early preparations, adequate funding vital for future Olympic Games outing - NOC News

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Early preparations, adequate funding vital for future Olympic Games outing - NOC

By Goodness Ndukuba, Awka on August 14, 2024

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), has advocated early preparations

and adequate funding as the critical solution for meaningful future Olympic Games participations.

NOC recommended that the nation kickstart preparations for the next Olympics promptly, with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the government, and notably the private sector, so that we can achieve podium success at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

Engr. Habu Gumel, President of NOC in a statement on Wednesday signed by the Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya urged the government to implement a comprehensive sports-related concept and target grassroots development programs in schools and colleges.

"This should also encompass the training and certification of sports managers (coaches, referees, administrators, etc," he said.

Gumel, while speaking on the Games commended President Bola Tinubu, for providing the resources to support the participation of Team Nigeria in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The NOC President also commended Minister of Sports, Sen. John Enoh, for his selfless efforts and welfare support to the team through the period of the Olympic Games.

Notably, a team of 87 athletes across 12 sports was symbolically handed over to the Olympic Committee for the Games from July 26 to August 11, 2024."

The athletes demonstrated exceptional dedication during the Games, earning eight placement Diplomas for their performances.

"Their effort fell short of achieving podium finishes, leading to disappointment among our compatriots at home and abroad.

"Within the Olympic Movement, we share in this disappointment as Nigerians, and we are committed to taking decisive action to address the underlying issues that have contributed to these sub-par performance in collaboration with other stakeholders.

"In light of this setback, we must analyse the root causes of our shortcomings and revisit fundamental principles.

"Witnessing our fellow African nations like Botswana achieve historic milestones at these Games underscores the importance of long-term strategic development for our athletes, emphasising the necessity for strong collaboration and a clear understanding of the various roles within the Olympic family, including partners and the Government.

"Recognising that timely funding plays a pivotal role in securing podium success at the Olympic Games is crucial. Without interruption, it necessitates continuous engagement with athletes, technical experts, professional administrators, and stakeholders throughout the 4-year cycle," Gumel noted.

According to him, as integral components of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, the National Sports Federations should be empowered to consistently prepare athletes, conduct training sessions, and organise qualification events that nurture sporting talents capable of reaching podium finishes.

"Also, the participation of the National Teams in major sporting tournaments such as the Commonwealth Games, the African Games, the Youth Games, the World Championships and others are crucial to the preparations for the Olympic Games.

"Over the years, we have consistently provided scholarships, grants, coaching, and refereeing courses through the IOC, Olympic Solidarity and ANOCA sources to our athletes and administrators," he added

Gumel, however, said that despite the overall below-par- performance, certain sports showcased remarkable achievements.

"For example, our basketball team, D'Tigress, displayed remarkable resilience and determination by advancing in the tournament and defeating Australia and Canada.

"This is the first time an African team in either the mens or women’s competition reached the the quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball event.

"Remarkably, our women's basketball team coach, Trainer Rene Wakama, was voted the best Coach/Manager at the Paris 2024 Olympic Basketball Tournament.

"However, unfortunately, many noteworthy stars in our Olympic team could not excel in their various sports, including the World record holder, Tobi Amusan, in the women's100-meters hurdles," he said.

The NOC President appealed to the private sector to complement the effort of government.

"A meticulously devised programme spanning four years leading up to the next Olympic Games is crucial for future success.

"This initiative should involve the active participation of the private sector in funding sports clubs, developing sports infrastructures and facilities, and providing equipment for athletes.

"In conclusion, we aim to reassure everyone that the setbacks of the past will not be repeated as we adhere to the Olympic Movement and the Charter for the betterment of the nation," Gumel affirmed.

Source Daily Sports Nigeria

Posted August 14, 2024