By Uzor Odigbo
President of the athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Tonobok Okowa says he always believe in the ability of hurdler, Tobi Amusan, to deliver any time she steps into the track.
Amusan, who is the current World Record holder in the 100m hurdle (12.12sec), made big headline in the early hours of Saturday, setting a new African women’s indoor record in the 60-meter hurdles at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan. The Ogun State-born Amusan clocked an impressive 7.77 seconds, and in the process, etched her name in history by erasing the longstanding record of 7.82 seconds set by compatriot, Glory Alozie, in 1999.
Okowa stated that Amusan has proven beyond doubt that she is a true Nigerian ambassador both on and off the track.
“I always have that confidence that Amusan will deliver any time she steps into the track. I have spoken with her, and congratulated her for this wonderful performance in Astana. I have equally told her to always stay focus, do the needful, do all her Out of Competition Test. It is the same message I give to all Nigerian athletes. This is the year of the Olympics Games, and I believe Amusan will deliver big for Team Nigeria,” Okowa stated.
The AFN boss hinted that the federation has already rolled out its plans for the athletes and their coaches ahead the Africa Games hold in Ghana in March, as well as other competitions, including the Olympics Games in Paris, France.
Okowa, who is also the President, Africa Region 2 Athletics body, stated that he excited watching on television Amusan compete at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan.
“It is a new athletics season, and earlier this week, I stayed awake to watch Temitope Adeshina erased the high jump record held by Doreen Amata. I have also stayed awake to watch other Nigerian athletes, including Godson Brume and Favor Ofili compete. I am so glad with their performances so far, and I want them to maintain it, just as I pray that God will protect them from any form of injury. Like I always say, Amusan’s performace is a testament to her hard work. This is just the beginning for her, and I have no doubt that Amusan will continue to achieve great milestones in her career,” Okowa stated.