Showing exceptional skill in their respective heats, Kanyinsola Ajayi and Favour Ashe have received praise from the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh. Their impressive performances have ensured Nigeria’s representation in the men’s 100m event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
A statement signed by Diana-Mary Nsan, S.A. Media to the Minister of Sports Development, revealed this commendation on Saturday.
In a surprising turn of events on Saturday morning, national champion Ajayi outperformed reigning Olympic Champion Marcell Jacobs in heat 5, clocking a winning time of 10.02 seconds.
Jacobs followed closely with 10.05 seconds, while Abdul Rasheed Saminu finished third with a time of 10.06 seconds.
Meanwhile, Ashe also secured a spot in the semifinals with one of the fastest non-automatic qualifying times.
He claimed fourth place in heat 4 with a time of 10.16 seconds, following Oblique Seville (9.99s), Hakim Sani Brown (10.02s), and Puripol Boonson (10.13s).
Enoh applauded both athletes for meeting the challenge and encouraged them to strive for further success in the upcoming semifinals and final tomorrow evening.
He stressed the importance of resilience and focus as they compete on the global stage.
In another event, 16-year-old Nigerian swimmer Adaku Nwandu narrowly missed qualifying for the Women’s 50m Freestyle final.
Finishing second in her heat with a time of 26.62 seconds, Nwandu fell short of the top 16 fastest times required for qualification.
Enoh praised Nwandu for her performance in Paris and expressed confidence in her potential for future achievements.
The Minister also motivated other Nigerian athletes awaiting their events to aim for qualification from the heats and strive for podium finishes.
He urged all participants to embody resilience and determination, representing Nigeria with pride and excellence at the Games, emphasizing the importance of support from all Nigerians during this time.