June, 20 2024.
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has urged Nigerian athletes to treat the upcoming African Championship in Cameroon as a perfect rehearsal for the Olympic Games in Paris.
Senator Enoh made the statement following the Athletics Federation of Nigeria's (AFN) announcement of a formidable list of 40 athletes that will represent the country at the African Championships in Douala.
Among the standout names are Tobi Amusan, Favour Ofili, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, and Chidi Okezie, some of Nigeria's biggest stars heading to the competition. The Minister emphasized the importance of this championship as a precursor to the Olympics, highlighting its role in preparing athletes for podium success at the world's biggest sporting event in Paris.
"The African Athletics Championship should serve as a dress rehearsal for the Olympics," Senator Enoh stated. "I charge all our flag bearers to represent the green and white flag with pride and aim to bring back the first position trophy at the end of the tournament."
He also advised the athletes to be cautious about their diet and hydration, noting the significance of this Olympic year and the heightened scrutiny they will face.
"Knowing fully well the remarkable achievements you had in Ghana, I believe you can replicate and even surpass those feats. You have done it at the African Games, and you can do it again."
Senator Enoh's call to action is a motivational boost for the athletes as they prepare for the African Championships, with the eyes of the nation and the world upon them. The dedication and hard work of these athletes continue to inspire hope and pride among Nigerians.