Director-general of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Wednesday, pledged his commitment to supporting any young Nigerian talents emerging from the 3rd CAA African U18/U20 Athletic Championships currently underway in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, by providing the best athlete welfare.
Olopade made this promise during an interview with journalists at the official opening of the 3rd CAA U18/U20 African Athletic Championships, which began yesterday at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.
He revealed that the commission is dedicated to nurturing new young talents who will dominate the track in the coming years.
Olopade stressed that supporting young Nigerian talents would prepare them to compete against already established athletes, such as Favour Ofili, who is representing Turkey.
“We want to create an environment where all the talents discovered in Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, can become world-beaters.
“Personally, I am determined to support any young talent that emerges from Nigeria.
“I will provide them with the best athlete welfare, which will prepare them to compete against established athletes like Ofili, who is representing Turkey.
“We are committed to identifying new young talents who will dominate the track in the next few years,” he stated.
Olopade expressed optimism that many exceptional talents will emerge from Nigeria, emphasising his anticipation for a strong performance from Nigerian athletes that will meet international standards.
“More importantly, we at the sports commission want to ensure our young talents are aligned with global expectations.
“I was impressed by the young girl I saw training in the long jump yesterday; she is already achieving global times.
“We want to see her improve further; these are promising prospects for our plans leading to 2028,” he concluded.
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