ABUJA — Nigeria’s gold medallist, Tobi Amusan, and other athletes have been honoured by President Muhammadu Buhari for their spectacular performances at several international competitions.
At an award ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja on Thursday, the President awarded N200 million to Team Nigeria contingents for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Athletics Championships. He also conferred national honours on them.
They include gold winners and other medal winners including the world champion in the 100m hurdles, Tobiloba Amusan, Ese Brume, Blessing Oborodudu, Oluwafemiayo Folashade, Taiwo Liadi, Ikechukwu Obichukwu, Bose Omolayo, Favour Ofili, Nasiru Sule, Ifechukwude Ikpeoyi, Ebikewenimo Welson, Hannah Reuben and Elizabeth Oshoba.
Speaking at the presidential reception in honour of the athletes, the President described the athletes as champions, worthy ambassadors, national heroes, and heroines, heaping praises on them for their exploits which have projected a positive image of the country.
“I watched with millions of Nigerians those exciting moments when you all brought smiles to us and our homes by breaking world, national and games records, as well as achieving personal best in your careers,” the President was quoted as saying in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, titled ‘President Buhari rewards Commonwealth Games, World Athletics Championships athletes with national honours, N200 million.
“Your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance. You all, members of Team Nigeria, have ignited the spirit for victory in our nation but even more you have been victorious in major sporting championships and games.
“I have followed keenly your achievements at the World Championships in Oregon, USA and, indeed, your remarkable performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
“And I am very pleased that you displayed at both the personal and group levels great sporting talents and delivered for your country great podium performances.
“Twelve times the world stood still as our green, the white-green national flag was hoisted and the national anthem recited. Thirty-five times we made it to the podium. You all, Team Nigeria, made that possible.
“You brought glory and honour to our country. And today, on behalf of the nation- I say, Thank You!”
The Commander-in-Chief reiterated his government’s commitment to rewarding excellence, no less for members of Team Nigeria who ignited the spirit of victory in the nation through stellar performances at international competitions.
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