Sports Minister, Sen. John Enoh, says the choice of world 100m hurdles Champion, Tobi Amusan (12.12) as Nigeria’s flagbearer for the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was well deserved.
He also praised the appointment of Anuoluwapo Opeyori as the team captain.
Sen. Enoh hailed both athletes on their appointments, insisting, “Amusan and Opeyori have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to their sports.
“Their leadership will be invaluable to Team Nigeria as we aim for success at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” he said.
Sen. Enoh further stressed the significance of these appointments, stating, “Having Amusan as our flagbearer is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and outstanding achievements in athletics. Her journey is an inspiration to many young Nigerians.
Also, Anuoluwapo Opeyori’s role as General Team Captain reflects his leadership qualities and the respect he commands among his peers. We believe their roles will galvanize our team and foster a spirit of unity and determination.”
Amusan is the first athlete from the athletics team to hold this honour in 20 years, following in the footsteps of Mary Onyali who was the flagbearer at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.
The 27 year old will be making her third trip to the Olympics after she made her debut eight years ago in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. She is bidding to become the first Nigerian to win a World outdoor title and an Olympic gold.
Badminton star, Opeyori won the African Championships and African Games in the singles event in 2019. He also won gold in the men’s single at the 2023 African Games, and a silver medal in the men’s single at Accra 2023.