By Andrew Abah
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has successfully intervened in the recent challenges in Team Nigeria’s camp at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
The NSC, led by Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, ensured the swift payment of all athletes’ bonuses and allowances in Tokyo.
Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade held a crucial meeting with the athletes and officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) in Tokyo, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of the country’s athletes at all times.
The meeting also accorded the DG the opportunity to resolve outstanding issues between the athletes and the AFN, fostering optimism for a stronger and more collaborative relationship going forward.
“The mandate given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is to prioritize the welfare of every Nigerian representing the nation, and that is why I am here,” Olopade stated.
“I understand there have been challenges in the past that led to misunderstandings. This is why Mr. President has revamped sports administration in the country with the establishment of the NSC; chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko is committed to ensuring that all our athletes are treated with the utmost priority.”
Hon. Olopade also urged the athletes to remain patriotic at all times, both in their performance and conduct, on and off the track, because as they represent, that’s how the rest of the world perceives Nigeria.
“I want to encourage you all to remember that you are the mirror through which the world sees our country. Your conduct should always reflect patriotism, even in the face of challenges. We have no other country but Nigeria, and I am proud to say we are the best people in the world despite our challenges. You are all ambassadors of our nation, and you must portray yourselves as such,” the DG emphasized.
The 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo has introduced Nigeria’s fast-rising star Kanyinsola Ajayi to the global audience after his historic appearance in the 100m final – the first for Nigeria in 18 years.
Also, Tobi Amusan won silver in the women’s 100m hurdles final with a time of 12.24s, finishing strongly against a tough field of opponents.
