The decision of Nigeria’s lone medal hopeful Blessing Okagbare to compete in only one event (4x100m relay) at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia has thrown the Nigerian camp into turmoil.
Unknon to many, the Sapele born top female athlete had entered for  only the 4x100m relay event instead of the expected usual 100m, long jump and 200m events.
When it was discovered Okagbare had opted for one event, the camp wasn’t the same as athletes and other concerned officials became  worried as to what becomes the medal hope of the athletics team at the Games.
Former board member of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Professor Ken Anugweje said the implications are so dire as she would have accounted for three solid medals. “Okagbare knows what she wants, although she had indicated earlier she would only compete in one event at the Games, her choice is  best for her.’
Gabriel Okon, AFN board member said, Okagbare may not have taken her discission to enter for one event in isolation to the attitude of the Sports Ministry and the Federation  to her welfare after her injuries and rehabilitation without any assistance or financial grants.
Okon said as defending champion, Okagbare should have competed in the sprint flat reasoning that perhaps, the top athlete was not motivated In taking risk yet again for the country that abandons  you in time of need.
Okagbare has many competitions to attend this season including the Asaba 2018 Africa Senior Athletics Championship in August , the IAAF Diamond league series in June and may not want to miss any of these by entering in all the events at the Games, Okon said.
Former AFN technical director,  Navy Commodore Omatseye Nesiama retired, also said he has no issues with the athlete opting for one event, but the question is, does she need the event. “the athlete had won most medals on offer at the games and perhaps she is currently looking at the big picture in her career. Let her choice stay and perhaps, her decision may give others the opportunity to shine.
Dan Etse, Okagare’s personal trainer in Nigeria opined that Okagbare’s decision to go for one event instead of three was a tough call on the team, he advised that a little persuasion could have made the athlete go for more events.
By her decision, Team Nigeria may have lost three medals before the athletics event begins on April 9.