From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari has lauded the medal-winning efforts of several Nigerian athletes and their counterparts in other sports, saying that their dedication and commitment is awe-inspiring.
According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the President stated this when he received the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, who recently received “Special Recognition Award for Contributions to Sports Development in Nigeria and the Africa Region” from President Mohammed Solih of Maldives.
Speaking after receiving the trophy from the Minister, Buhari thanked him for the honour to the country.
He recounted the exploits of Nigeria’s national football team, Super Eagles, at national and international stages, noting he still hasn’t forgotten Nigeria’s absence at the Qatar World Cup 2022.
Commending Dare’s enormous contribution to sports development, he expressed delight that he has been recognized and applauded outside the shores of the country.
The President noted that under Dare, Nigeria’s sports sector has developed from recreation to business, adding that with revamping of infrastructure, laurels have been harvested at international events by our athletes while harmony and unity of purpose have prevailed in several sporting associations.
Buhari also applauded the Minister’s commitment, dedication and service to the nation in a sector that brings young and old together, as well as athletes and fans.
He urged the Sports Minister to continue to give his best for God and country.
In his remarks, Dare thanked the President for his tireless support towards sports matters in the country.
He cited the generous and timely funding from the government to all sporting organizations and their many local and international engagements, describing the recent donation of N200 million to Team Nigeria at the last Commonwealth Games as deeply inspiring.