By Uzor Odigbo
The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Juru Okowa, is confident Athletics at the ongoing 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana, will surpass it’s projections and expectations
Okowa made this submission shortly after Nigeria blew away the fairly strong field on Day 3 of action at the University of Ghana, Legon on Wednesday, winning four gold and a silver medal.
“I think we will surpass the target that was put at stake, that was put at the beginning, let’s see what happens. Our plan is to take the remaining two relays, I pray that it will happen like that and then lets see what we have in the two that remain.” An elated Okowa said.
The gold minning by the Athletes came from the relays, 4×100m men and women, 100m hurdle by Tobi Amusan and Chidi Okezie in the 400m men. Esther Elo Joseph got silver in the women’s 400m.
“A lot of our boys that are in school, are very hot, but they are not here. When they join this team, it is going to be difficult for us to select who to represent Nigeria. It is good for such stiff competition among them, but we will get the best possible, we will get the best.” The man who oversees athletics in Nigeria stated.
Already, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria are working towards the African Championship and the Olympic Games in Paris.
Okowa also says its imperative that the Federation work hand in hand with the Federal Government in order to get the best out of this talented, committed and determined athletes.
“It is for us to really come together with the Federal Ministry of Sports and I hope they will understand our plight.”
He went further to explain that the Paris Games in July and August is a bigger and tougher competition.
“To prepare for the Olympics is a different ballgame, you have to start learly, you have to support the athletes, you have to make sure there is a way to give them little stipends for upkeep, so that they will be able to train.”
The president of CAA Zone 3 added, “When we seat with the ministry they will tell us which way to go and that will determine our sources.”
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria is also working with other corporate bodies to raise funds for the team.
“But before then, we will also start striving to see where we can get support for them, maybe from Premium Trust Bank, we will see what we can get from them, so that we can at least get something for them.” He explained.
“There is no way athletes will not get support, the financial commitment is what will help them and they will feel beloved.” Okowa concluded.
After three days of action on the tracks, Team Nigeria Athletics have won Seven gold, two silver and 2 bronze.
