Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) president, Engineer Habu Gumel has assured sports lovers across the nation that the body’s investiture of esteemed personalities will bring about better welfare conditions and improved all round trappings for the country’s athletes.
Gumel described the new patrons as distinguished Nigerians who are capable of bringing light into sports, and urged all stakeholders to lend them adequate support and trust to keep the NOC vision alive.
Gumel, who is also an executive member of International Olympic Committee (IOC), said during Tuesday’s ceremony in Lagos that he cannot do but laud the newly inducted patrons.
He explained that the responsibilities of patrons of the NOC are to give good advice and support the Olympic Movement as appropriate.
Gumel declared: “We induct into the high office as NOC patrons iconic individuals whose meritorious contributions to humanity, sport and societal development speak volumes.
“The new patrons are honoured for contributions to the development of sports in the country and the Olympic movement in particular.
“They are heavyweights who have carved a niche for themselves in their different endeavours.
“No doubt, they are going to bring their wealth of experience to support Nigerian sports.
“We’re concerned about the welfare of the Nigerian athletes who toil day and night to bring glory unto our fatherland.
“We want the best for them and, for you to achieve that, you must have support, moral and financial to equip them to go higher.”
