The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has set its sights on the 2024 Paris Olympics, urging stakeholders to strive for excellence and surpass past achievements. Habu Gumel, NOC President, emphasized this call to action during the committee’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held virtually on Wednesday.
In a statement released by the NOC’s Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya, Gumel highlighted the need for Nigeria to significantly improve upon its performance at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where the country secured two Gold medals. He stressed the importance of aiming for a new level of success in the upcoming Paris Olympics, reflecting on the historic achievements of Chioma Ajunwa in the long jump and the iconic Nwankwo Kanu-led Dream Team in soccer at the Atlanta Games.
Looking ahead, Gumel emphasized the importance of strong participation not only in the Paris Olympics but also in the 2024 Youth Winter Games and the African Games. This ambitious vision sets the stage for Nigeria to shine across a diverse array of sporting events on the global stage.
Nezianya also outlined Gumel’s review of the committee’s accomplishments and future plans. The NOC President lauded the year 2023 as a successful period for sports development in the country, reflecting on the committee’s dedication to unifying the Olympic family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement. Additionally, he highlighted the acquisition of five hectares of land for the construction of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja and the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos.
Gumel’s report culminated in celebrating Team Nigeria’s impressive performance at the Commonwealth Games, where the country secured a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals, signaling a remarkable showcase of athletic prowess and determination.
The NOC’s call for heightened performance and its strategic vision for the future underscore a resolute commitment to raising Nigeria’s sporting profile on the global stage, transcending boundaries and inspiring a new era of athletic achievement.
