Preparations for Team Nigeria’s participation in the 2024 African Games have surged into motion as the nation’s contingent gears up for the prestigious event slated to unfold in Accra, Ghana, from March 8 to 23, 2023.
In a pivotal meeting with presidents of various sports federations, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan, outlined crucial strategies and expectations for the upcoming competition.
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Team Nigeria is set to partake in a total of 25 sports at the African Games, with eight disciplines serving as Olympic qualifiers, including athletics, badminton, cycling, swimming, table tennis, triathlon, and wrestling.
Additionally, athletes will compete in 15 non-Olympic qualifying sports, such as arm wrestling, basketball (3×3), beach volleyball, boxing, chess, cricket, football, and handball. Moreover, Nigerian athletes will demonstrate their prowess in mixed martial arts and scrabble during the event.
During the meeting, Senator Owan emphasized the importance of aiming for excellence, urging federation presidents to steer their respective sports towards achieving outstanding results in Ghana.
“As representatives of our great nation, we carry the weight of national pride on our shoulders. I implore each of you to rally your federations and strive for nothing short of gold at the African Games. Let us showcase the spirit of Nigerian sportsmanship and bring honour to our homeland.”
To facilitate rigorous training and preparation, pre-Games camps have been established in five states across the federation.
Abuja will host athletes participating in a wide array of sports, including athletics, badminton, basketball, football, swimming, and more.
Lagos, Ibadan, Bayelsa, and Gombe will also serve as training grounds for various sporting disciplines, ensuring that Team Nigeria is primed for success in Accra.
As Nigeria stands as the second most successful nation in the history of the African Games, boasting a total of 1326 medals across 12 editions, anticipation runs high for another triumphant outing at the forthcoming event.
With meticulous planning, unwavering dedication, and fervent support from sports enthusiasts nationwide, Team Nigeria aims to ascend to the pinnacle of African sportsmanship and secure gold at the 2024 African Games.
