Former international long jumper, Yusuf Alli has declared that the recent performances by the country’s contingent in Botswana shows the Nigeria still possesses athletes who are capable of competing against the world’s best.
Sports2547 reports that, Alli, who is now the chief executive officer of Nigeria’s Podium Performance Commission, also praised the country’s 4x400m mixed relay team for winning gold at the ongoing African Senior Athletics Championship.
While noting the contingent’s strides at the championship in Accra, Ghana, Alli noted the presence of many young athletes in the entire Team Nigeria contingent, then praised the relay quartet for their determination, composure and execution.
He singled out Toheebat Adebisi Jimoh for special commendation, stating that the young athlete displayed uncommon confidence, maturity, composure and mental strength despite competing on one of the biggest stages in African athletics.
Alli further noted that the emergence of talented young athletes is a positive sign for the future of Nigerian athletics, as he sees the country gradually building a new generation capable of dominating global competitions in the coming years.
“All credit must go to the athletes and coaches for the incredible job they are doing. Winning gold at this level is never easy, but what impressed me most was the confidence and maturity shown by young Toheebat Adebisi Jimoh.
“For a teenager to perform with such composure on a stage like the African Championship speaks volumes about her future. The future of Nigerian athletics lies in the youth, and that is exactly what Toheebat and several others have shown.
“From the World Relays to this championship in Accra, they are all proving that Nigeria still possesses enormous talent capable of competing with the very best in the world,” Alli submitted, with a tone suggesting deep-rooted satisfaction.
