Represented by the Director, Federations, Elites and Athletes Department of the Ministry (FEAD) and Chef De Mission, Dr. Simon Ebhojiaye, Dare said that the athletes and coaches were being rewarded for bringing glory to their fatherland.
He assured of the government’s continued commitment to the development of sports in Nigeria. This in addition he said, was one of the reasons for the establishment of the Parasports Department in the Ministry to further provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to also strive and excel in the field of sports.
The Minister expressed optimism that with the caliber of Athletes, Coaches, Officials, and Technical crew Nigeria is having in Birmingham and their level of commitment and patriotism, the country is no doubt set to record more podium performances at the games.
To ensure that Nigeria stays among the top countries in the world of sports, he advised them to be committed, focused, and resolute.
Folashade Lawal, who won the gold medal in the 59 kg women’s weightlifting, earlier spoke on behalf of the medalists and coaches, thanking the government for being proactive and promising that the reward will encourage the athletes to win more medals for the country.
She attributed the successes recorded so far to the glory of God, teamwork, discipline, hard work as well as government support for sports development in the country.
At the ceremony, the gold medal winner, Adijat Adenike
Olarinoye and Rafiatu Folashade Lawal, received $5,000 each, silver medalist, Taiwo Laidi got $3,000; bronze medallists Edidiong Joseph Umaofia and Islamiyat Yusuf got $2,000 while their coaches were also given $3,000 respectively.
