Prominent sports analyst and commentator Ayo Akinfe has urged the Nigerian government to embark on an ambitious program aimed at securing Nigeria’s best-ever performance at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Akinfe has proposed a comprehensive plan that would see the nation send 300 athletes to compete in 25 events across both male and female categories, with the ultimate goal of winning at least six gold, ten silver, and ten bronze medals.
In a recent statement, Akinfe laid out a strategic roadmap, stressing that the preparation must begin immediately. “Nigeria needs to start planning for the 2028 Olympics now with an ambitious programme to send 300 athletes to Los Angeles to participate in 25 events in both male and female categories,” Akinfe stated.
Akinfe outlined the 25 sports Nigeria should focus on, including Football, Basketball, Athletics, Boxing, Wrestling, and Swimming, among others. According to him, a well-rounded approach that invests in a broad spectrum of sports will increase Nigeria’s chances of achieving significant success on the global stage.
Akinfe further urged President Bola Tinubu to set a clear mandate for the Sports Minister, one that prioritizes Olympic success as a national objective. “Were I in President Tinubu’s shoes, I would set the sports minister a target of at least six gold, ten silver, and ten bronze medals. I would give him a free hand to go out and raise funds over the next four years to meet these targets,” Akinfe emphasized.
This proposal, if adopted, could mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s approach to international sports, moving from a focus on last-minute preparations to a more sustained and strategic development of athletic talent. Akinfe’s vision calls for not just government backing but also private sector involvement, encouraging a national effort to support the athletes and ensure Nigeria’s success on the world stage.
With the 2028 Olympics just four years away, Akinfe’s proposal could serve as a catalyst for Nigeria to break new ground in its sporting achievements, fostering a legacy of excellence that could inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes.
