The Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike, JP has hailed the Federal Government for award of excellence bestowed on nominated 60 sports icons.
In a press statement by the Chairman, Office of the Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Prince Olayioye Ajide, the award is very appropriate and right step in right direction.
Ejidike noted that such recognition will give hope to patriotic Nigerians that the nation is watching and would not allow their contributions to go in vain.
The sports philanthropist added that such recognition will spur Nigerians to strive to go extra mile to win laurels for their fatherland.
He commended the Honourable Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare whose office initiated the memorable event describing the minister as visionary leader who breathed life into the system.
Ejidike said the bane of our system had been neglect of past heroes who dissipated all their energies and resources to sports and, yet, no recognition from the government but with this feat there is hope for patriotic citizens.
The Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Ejidike expressed satisfaction on the recognition of members of the Super Eagles squad of 1980, 1994 and U-23 Atlanta 1996; various Olympic medallists; legendary footballers; ace commentator, Ernest Okonkwo and philanthropist like Late Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Chief MKO Abiola among others.
It would be recalled that 60 sports icons were honoured by the Federal Government which was held at the Velodrome of MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
