National Sports Commission (NSC) director-general, Honourable Bukola Olopade has revealed another directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that has inspired a new wave of cash rewards for Nigerian athletes while on international duty.
Olopade disclosed that Preisent Tinubu’s directive is that the NSC must always ‘ensure there is money in the pockets of our children,’ anytime they are represnting the country in one sporting outing or the other, which the DG believes has inspired recent great results.
He cited examples from the country’s athletes performances on the international circuit as well as recent feats at the Commonwealth Games and World U20 Athletics Championship, all of which he described as remmarkable achievements and commended the country’s new stars.
While thanking them for putting Nigeria back on the global sports map, Olopade admitted there is still more work to be done, even as he enthused that the NSC’s athlete-first approach will continue to yield dividends, especially with a unified vision in the Commission.
He acknowleged the role being played by NSC chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who he said fully supports the emphasis on welfare and assured that everyone at the NSC will continue to engage with the athletes as their own children, while providing them with utmost care and rewards.
Olopade noted, “The likes of Kanyinsola, Ashe, Nathaniel, and Ogazi taking Glasgow by storm, something truly positive is happening in Nigerian track and field. Nigeria is experiencing an obvious resurgence in athletics.
“The world is beginning to take notice. From Miracle’s miraculous run at the U20 World Championships in Oregon to Jessica Orji emerging as a new poster girl for African athletics, but we are not there yet.
“For our athletes, everything that needs to be given, we have started giving. We are determined, and I know I speak the mind of Mallam Shehu Dikko as well, to ensure that this commitment goes beyond athletics.
“Wherever our athletes are competing, the mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is very clear: ensure there is money in the pockets of our children, ensure they receive the right care.”
