The president of Shooting Federation of Nigeria, Brig. Gen. Lonsdale Adeoye (rtd) has refuted talk that the sport is only for members of the armed forces, as he says it is a sport that civilians can also partake in.
Adeoye admitted that soldiers, policemen and other security personnel are more adept in handling firearms, but said shooting a sport is all about aiming for accuracy in a peaceful competition.
He explained further that the 42-year-old history of shooting as a sport in Nigeria has seen it emerge as a multi-medal event that can also add to the country’s search for international glory.
The Shooting Federation boss, though, acknowledged that the level of awareness for the sport in Nigeria is not wide, but reasoned that it could become better through sponsorship and support from corporate bodies.
Adeoye stressed: “Shooting as a sport does not only accommodate people in the armed forces and the paramilitary, but also civilians who are very good at the game.
“Shooting can bring more glory internationally for Nigeria, but we need support from the private sector in order to grow the sport even further.”
