NOC SAYS 2023 IS A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR SPORTS IN NIGERIA

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has reflected on the outgoing year, 2023, describing it as a successful year for sports development in the country. 

Addressing its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on Wednesday,  December 13, 2023, the President, Engr. Habu Gumel, OON, FNIM, FNSE, addressed the esteemed colleagues and members of the Olympic Family in his report for the year 2022, highlighting the Committee’s achievements and plans for the future.

Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his pleasure and privilege to address the Olympic Family, acknowledging the support of all members, including the Executive Committee, and Executive Board.

The NOC president particularly paid tribute to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

The IOC member used the opportunity provided by the AGM to appeal to all stakeholders – the Federation presidents, and the Ministry of Sports to rally route ensure strong participation in three Major Games in 2024, Youth Winter Games, the African Games and the Olympics.

‘’We need a new result at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; by improving on the 1996 Atlanta Games, where Nigeria won two Gold medals.

This was the Games the Chioma Ajunwa won gold through her 7.12-metre long jump and the gold by our soccer ‘Dream Team’ led by Nwankwo Kanu.

He also recognized the esteemed Patrons, Trustees, and members of various Commissions and Committees for their contributions in achieving the Committee’s goals.

He reflected on the activities of 2022, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to uniting the Olympic Family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement. 

Gumel, who is an honorary life member of the International Olympic Committee highlighted the successful acquisition of five hectares of land for the building of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja, a long-awaited achievement. 

He also mentioned the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos, a significant step towards the development of sports facilities.

To support the activation of Olympic Movement activities, the Committee reconstituted various Commissions, with a focus on involving members from the National Federations. 

”Despite financial constraints, the President expressed satisfaction with the dedication and hard work of some Commissions in achieving their objectives, ” Gumel said 

The President welcomed Senator John Enoh, the energetic Minister for Sports Development, and expressed his joy and honour in presenting the Report of Activities for the year 2022.

The report acknowledged the XXII Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom. 

The President mentioned the successful visit of the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria, marking the seventh consecutive visit since 2002. 

The Baton’s journey included stops at various locations, including Abuja, Jabi Lake, and the British High Commission, before departing Nigeria. It was a moment of pride for the Olympic Family to witness the Baton’s presence in their country.

The report discussed the Gather Prepare & Sustain  (GAPS) programme, a crucial initiative by the Commonwealth Games Federation for Para athletes. 

Nigeria was among the 13 African Commonwealth countries benefiting from the programme. However, the report also mentioned the unfortunate passing of coach Patrick Anaeto during the programme, a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and coaches.

The highlight of the report was the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games, winning a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals. 

The President praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work, placing Nigeria in the seventh position in the overall medals table.

The report then shifted focus to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, where Nigeria participated in Ski Sports. The qualification pathway was discussed, with one athlete successfully qualifying through the continental representation quota. 

It was also noted that Dr Marian Mkpo Odun received a scholarship to attend the IOC Diploma Course in Sports Medicine, contributing to the development of Nigerian sports medicine.

Other events, such as the celebration of Olympic Day, the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, and various seminars and workshops, were also highlighted in the report, underscoring the Committee’s commitment to the growth and development of Nigerian sports.

The President Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his gratitude to the Olympic Family for their support and contributions. 

He extended his appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,  Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,  the Grand Patron of NOC, for their unwavering support.

He wished the General Assembly productive deliberations and extended warm wishes for the season.

This report signifies the remarkable achievements of Nigerian sports in 2022 and sets the foundation for future endeavours in Olympic sports in the country. 

As part of the highlights of the event, the Account Audit firm of Yerima & Associates was re-appointed for another term. ##

Tony Nezianya (PRO NOC)