Embrace Olympic spirit of peace, Ministry of Sports urges Nigerians

The Federal Ministry of Sports Development has called on Nigerians to embody the Olympic spirit of peace and unity, following the conclusion of the 2024 Olympic Games.

The Games, which wrapped up on Sunday at the iconic Stade de France, saw the 80,000-seater venue transformed into a vibrant concert hall. The event featured a series of performances showcasing French culture before the Olympic flag was ceremonially lowered. The flag was then handed over by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Thomas Bach, to the Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, signaling the transition to the next Olympic host city.

Nigeria participated in 12 events with a delegation of 88 athletes, competing in a total of 329 events across 32 different sports. Although Team Nigeria did not secure any medals, their performance generated significant excitement across the country, with many Nigerians staying up late to cheer on their athletes.

Reflecting on the Games, the Ministry of Sports Development expressed its determination to begin preparations for the next Olympics, set to take place in Los Angeles in 2028. “The journey in Paris has inspired us as a Ministry to start now for the next games, so we can rewrite history and show the world we are the giant of the black race,” the Ministry stated.

Acknowledging the disappointment felt by many Nigerians over the medal drought, the Ministry assured the public of its commitment to restoring Nigeria’s sporting glory under the leadership of Senator John Owan Enoh. The Ministry also extended its gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his prompt approval and release of funds, emphasizing that it demonstrated the President’s dedication to supporting young athletes.

In conclusion, the Ministry thanked the coaches, technical directors, medics, officials, and athletes for their efforts and for inspiring the next generation of Nigerian athletes. “The end of every race is the beginning of a new one. The Ministry of Sports Development calls on everyone to embrace and live in the culture of peace every day so we can make Nigeria great again,” the statement read.