The welfare of Nigeria’s local and foreign-based athletes has been a top priority for the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh. The minister recently revealed that these athletes have now received training grants and allowances, marking a significant step in supporting their endeavors.
Senator Enoh, known as #OwanEnoh on Twitter, announced the news through his X.com handle. He emphasized that this development is groundbreaking as it is the first time that home-based athletes representing Nigeria have been granted training funds.
During an interactive session with the athletes at the games village in Paris, the minister addressed the athletes’ concerns. He mentioned in his tweets, “Home-based athletes have raised issues about the lack of training grants, which were previously exclusive to foreign-based athletes. We have rectified this disparity by ensuring that both home-based and foreign athletes receive training grants, along with all other allowances provided.”
Senator Enoh emphasized that every athlete who represents Nigeria deserves to receive training grants as a recognition of their dedication and commitment to the country. He added, “The atmosphere at the games village is vibrant, and the athletes are motivated for their upcoming performances.”
One of Nigeria’s athletes, Favour Ofili, recently qualified for the women’s 200 meters final at the Olympic Games in Paris. In another sport, Blessing Oborududu, a Nigerian wrestler, showcased her prowess by securing a spot in the semi-finals of the women’s 68kg wrestling event. Additionally, the women’s senior basketball team, D’Tigress, achieved a historic feat by reaching the quarter-finals of the tournament for the first time in Nigeria’s history after a remarkable victory over Canada.