President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa, has addressed the controversy surrounding Workforce Nigeria package and in addition expressed confidence within the nation’s probabilities on the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
Okowa informed the press throughout his go to to Japan, assuring that the athletes are in excessive spirits and well-prepared for podium finishes.
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Okowa dismissed reviews of kit-related points in camp, insisting that the matter was exaggerated and had no bearing on the group’s morale.
In keeping with him, the athletes have been totally kitted, comfortably accommodated in certainly one of Tokyo’s greatest motels, and are having fun with satisfactory meals and safety.
“The entire kits have been offered. I met with the athletes and technical group, and everyone seems to be in good spirits. Our athletes are carrying their new kits and centered on competing,” Okowa stated.
Okowa additionally revealed that the AFN is in discussions with package producers HiRacer for a sponsorship deal, noting that athletes who make the rostrum will obtain money rewards.
Below the present association, gold medalists will earn $30,000, silver medalists $20,000, and bronze medalists $10,000.
He emphasised that there was no formal settlement but, however that Nigerian athletes will profit alongside others already signed by HiRacer.
Reflecting on Day 1 of the Championships, Okowa congratulated Kanyinsola Ajayi and Israel Okon for qualifying for the lads’s 100m semi-finals.
Ajayi clocked a surprising 9.88s, his new private greatest, whereas Okon additionally impressed with a robust efficiency.
Okowa praised their efforts, urging them to stay centered for the semi-final showdown.
He additionally hailed Rosemary Chukwuma for her spirited outing within the girls’s 100m.
The AFN boss additionally appreciated the trouble of Chukwuebuka Enekwechi for ending fifth within the males’s shot put remaining.
Not forgetting Ese Brume, Prestina Ochonogor, Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons, and Obiageri Pamela Amaechi for showcasing resilience regardless of lacking out on the finals.
The AFN President additionally clarified considerations concerning the measurement of Nigeria’s contingent in Tokyo.
He said that solely 15 athletes, 4 technical officers, two medical employees, and two directors had been formally accredited, whereas another individuals current traveled on private preparations.
He appealed to Nigerians to help the group wholeheartedly, stressing that their prayers and encouragement would encourage the athletes to larger achievements.
