Abuja becomes the epicenter for canoeing as Nigeria, along with 16 other nations, converges for the first-ever Confederation of Africa Canoe Sprint and Para Canoe qualifiers.
Read Also: NWFL: Dannaz FC Defender Deborah Bakare Celebrates Clean Sheet Record, Expresses Gratitude To Fans
The high-stakes competition, spanning from Tuesday to Saturday, is crucial for athletes vying for coveted tickets to the canoe events at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
President of the Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing Federation, Admiral Festus Porbeni, highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to host this significant continental event.
Joined by the president of the Confederation of Africa Canoe, Joao Manuel Da Costa Alegre Afonso, and other officials, Porbeni emphasized the nation’s demonstrated capacity to organize and host regional and international competitions.
The championship marks an evolution from the first Boat Championship held in Abuja from July 26 to 30. Porbeni expressed the federation’s commitment to pragmatic development, evident in endorsements from International Canoe Federation President, Thomas Konietzko, and CAC President, Joao Manuel Da Costa Alegre Afonso.
How You Can Get a Chance To Become a Millionaire
Despite challenges, including delays in receiving Nigeria-made boats due to stringent IOC and ICF standards, the organizers secured support from Nelo, a renowned world canoe and boat manufacturer based in Portugal.
The company provided over 20 boats for training and championship purposes.
Admiral Porbeni, a retired Naval officer, acknowledged the collaborative efforts involving the Finance Ministry, Sports Development Minister Senator John Owan Enoh, and Nigeria Customs Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
However, he lamented the interference of unknown individuals that hindered the smooth access to the boats, causing delays in the championship plans.
President Joao Manuel Da Costa Alegre Afonso commended the resilience of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoeing, and Sailing Federation in overcoming challenges.
Recognizing Nigeria’s reputation as a leading force in canoeing, he praised the commitment of the best canoeists in Africa who eagerly signed up to compete for coveted slots at the Paris Olympic Games, reinforcing Nigeria’s status in the sport.
