Premium Trust Bank has emerged as a new sponsor for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), promising a transformative era for athletes and officials, according to Tafida Gadzama, the AFN’s First Vice President.
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Gadzama, a former African U20 400m champion and Olympics 4x400m gold medalist, expressed disappointment over the recent boycott of the AFN Golden League final by some top Nigerian home-based athletes.
However, he assured that he and his fellow AFN board members are determined to improve the treatment of athletes, believing that a positive change is on the horizon.
Gadzama expressed his satisfaction with the news that Premium Trust Bank is finally set to sponsor the federation, even after a delay of 10 months since the initial announcement.
He emphasized the commitment of himself and other former international athletes on the board to prioritize Nigerian athletes’ well-being and ensure they receive adequate rewards for promoting the federation’s image.
The First Vice President highlighted the need to increase prize money for athletes, citing examples of road runners earning up to N100,000 and N500,000. He proposed that track athletes should receive similar rewards, such as N200,000 for winning each leg of the Golden League and N500,000 for the final.
Gadzama also pledged to improve athletes’ accommodations by providing them with standard hotels and granting transport subsidies upon their arrival at competition venues. Coaches would not be left out either, as they would also receive support.
Gadzama aimed to establish a responsive and responsible federation, assuring athletes that he would be their advocate in this new era. He believed that the sponsor would be pleased with athletes benefiting directly from the funds invested in the deal.
The AFN First Vice President emphasized the importance of inclusivity and transparency, stating that decisions should be made collectively by the board, as outlined in the constitution.
He expressed disbelief that board members were often informed of decisions through email rather than being actively involved in the decision-making process.
Gadzama condemned the practice of some board members forfeiting their constitutional rights, while others seemed willing to compromise their integrity for personal reasons.
With the arrival of Premium Trust Bank as a sponsor and the determination of Gadzama and his colleagues on the AFN board, a new chapter is set to unfold in Nigerian athletics.
Athletes can anticipate improved rewards, better accommodations, and a more transparent decision-making process, all aimed at elevating the sport and enhancing the federation’s overall performance.
