Sports Ministry explains Oshonaike’s pick

Table tennis has netted another goal as one of Africa’s most successful female table tennis stars, Olufunke Oshonaike, has been named assistant captain of Team Nigeria to the Rio Olympics, and Ministry of Youth and Sports has given reasons for the pick.
Nneka Anibeze, media assistant to youth and sports minister, said Chelsea midfielder, John Mikel Obi, is Team Nigeria’s captain and Oshoanike assistant captaim
Anibeze, quoting Nigeria’s Chief-de-mission, Christian Ohaa, said Obi is one of the three over-aged players in the football squad and is making his first appearance in the Olympic Games.
“Table tennis star, Olufunke Oshonaike, is the assistant team captain. This will be Oshonaike’s sixth appearance at the Olympics after she debuted at Atlanta ’96.
“Mikel Obi and Oshonaike were chosen because of their consistency, patriotism and dedication to national assignments.
“Mikel is a young, patriotic footballer of international status and we believe he will be a role model to the upcoming athletes while Oshonaike is experienced and is one of the oldest athletes in the team.
“We believe that their combined efforts will bring goodwill to Team Nigeria and project the county’s image positively to the world,” Anibeze explained.
However, sports fans have criticised the decision.
One, who pleaded anonymity, said: “Where you have a seventh time Olympian like Segun Toriola, a role model by all standards, naming a first timer like Mikel Obi as Team Nigeria captain to the Rio Olympics leaves a sour taste in the mouth and a lot more to be desired.
“The choice of Oshonaike is understandable because this will be her sixth appearance and she has really paid her dues and can confidently inspire other athletes at the Olympics.”