Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tunde Eludini
Published on 2024-03-30 12:20:29
Team Nigeria put on an impressive display at the recently concluded African Games in Ghana, securing medals in 20 out of the 25 events they participated in. While various sports like cricket, swimming, hockey, and handball saw Nigerian athletes shine, it was athletics and boxing that truly highlighted Nigerian dominance in the competition.
Athletics proved to be a powerhouse for Team Nigeria, with track and field athletes winning a total of 22 medals, half of which were gold. The absence of strong rivals from countries like Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, and Ivory Coast may have contributed to Nigeria’s success at the games. Notable athletes like Favour Ofili, Rosemary Chukwuma, Samson Nathaniel, and Temitope Adeshina were absent, but the coaching expertise provided by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) played a crucial role in guiding the athletes to victory.
The self-motivation and determination of Nigerian athletes were also key factors in their success at the African Games. Despite the lack of formal preparation, athletes pushed themselves to perform well, especially in an Olympic year where qualification is a top priority. Many Nigerian athletes training in the US also gained significant advantages, as seen with athletes like Nnamdi Chinecherem excelling after honing their skills abroad.
In boxing, Nigeria’s team delivered an outstanding performance, clinching eight gold medals and two silver medals, showcasing meticulous planning, determination, and talent selection by Coach Adura Olalehin. The boxers’ hunger for victory, rigorous training, and unwavering commitment propelled them to success, with a record ten boxers reaching the finals in different categories.
Looking forward, the next African Games in 2027 are scheduled to be held in Egypt. Nigeria’s achievements in athletics and boxing at the 2023 African Games serve as a testament to the talent, dedication, and potential of Nigerian athletes, setting a high standard for future competitions. The success in these sports reflects the resilience, passion, and unified spirit of Team Nigeria, paving the way for continued excellence on the African and global sporting stage.
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