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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday gifted Team Nigeria contingents to the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Athletics Championships N200m and national honours for their outstanding performances.
He also presented Award of Recognition to World Record Sportswoman Tobi Amusan as he received in audience the Nigeria Contingent to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in State House, Abuja.
According to a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari spoke at a presidential reception in honour of the athletes.
The President stated that his administration is committed to rewarding excellence, particularly for members of Team Nigeria who have instilled a sense of victory in the country through outstanding performances at international competitions.
Congratulating all the awardees and recipients, Buhari expressed confidence that this will spur them to greater heights.
The President who described the athletes as champions, worthy ambassadors, national heroes and heroines, heaped praises on them for proudly flying the Nigerian flag in nine sporting events.
“I watched with millions of Nigerians those exciting moments when you all brought smiles to us and our homes by breaking world, national and Games records, as well as achieving personal best in your careers.
“Your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance.
“You all, members of Team Nigeria have ignited the spirit for victory in our nation but even more you have been victorious in major sporting championships and Games.
“I have followed keenly your achievements at the World Championships in Oregon USA and indeed your remarkable performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
“And I am very pleased that you displayed at both personal and group levels great sporting talents and delivered for your country great podium performances,” he said.
The President told the athletes that their hour of sporting glory beamed the “radar of the world on Nigeria, adding that their exploits have gone a long way in projecting the positive image of the country.
“12 times, the world stood still as our green, white green national flag was hoisted and the National Anthem recited. 35 times we made it to the podium. You all Team Nigeria made that possible.
“You brought glory and honour to our country. And today, on behalf of the nation- I say, thank you!”
President Buhari called out the names of the gold winners and other medal winners including the world champion in the 100m hurdles, Tobiloba Amusan, Ese Brume, Blessing Oborodudu , Oluwafemiayo Folashade, Taiwo Liadi, Ikechukwu Obichukwu, Bose Omolayo, Favour Ofili, Nasiru Sule, Ifechukwude Ikpeoyi, Ebikewenimo Welson, Hannah Rueben and Elizabeth Oshoba.
