The director-general of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has expressed his satisfaction with the performances of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed ‘Gateway Games 2024’ in Ogun State.
Following a medal presentation to IJA swimmer Aidan Dumuje Abili during the swimming events, a visibly delighted Hon. Olopade remarked on the promising results thus far. Abili has secured three medals, comprising two silver and one bronze.
“It fills me with joy to witness the immediate impact of the IJA initiative we launched at the NSC. We aimed to provide these young athletes with an opportunity to compete at an elite level, and they are demonstrating that age is just a number. Based on their performances during this festival, one can only speculate about what they will achieve with greater exposure in the future. They have exhibited remarkable courage throughout these Games, which is truly commendable,” he stated.
Expressing his gratitude, Abili highlighted the invaluable opportunity provided to junior athletes at the National Sports Festival. “This is my first experience at this level. On behalf of my fellow IJA athletes, I extend my thanks to the NSC for this chance. I’ve gained significant knowledge here, and this exposure will undoubtedly assist me in my sporting career,” he said.
Abili is determined to leverage his participation in the Gateway Games 2024 to propel Nigeria onto the podium at future international events. “My sights are now set on the Youth Olympics, and thereafter, I will focus on the Olympics in the coming years. I will strive to ensure that I represent Nigeria on the podium as a way of expressing my gratitude for this opportunity. We must make the most of our IJA experience,” he emphasised.
The talented swimmer, who is a triple gold medallist from the 2024 National Youth Games, clinched two silver medals in both the 50m and 100m backstroke events, as well as a bronze in the 200m backstroke.
