The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has expressed deep disappointment over the performance of Team Nigeria at the 2024 Olympic Games, describing it as far below expectations.
In a statement released by SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, through the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, the Association deemed it unacceptable that Nigeria returned from Paris without a single medal.
SWAN attributed the dismal showing to widespread administrative incompetence and negligence. A glaring example was the exclusion of Nigeria’s highly rated track and field athlete, Favour Ofili, from the 100m event, which they described as a clear indication of the lack of proper oversight and preparation.
The Association criticized the sports authorities for making lofty promises of a medal haul before the Games, despite evident shortcomings in preparation and infrastructure.
According to SWAN, the Sports Ministry’s assurance that Nigeria would surpass its best-ever performance at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics was grossly misleading, given the reality on the ground.
The statement highlighted that various Sports Federations were more focused on ensuring that athletes qualified for the Olympics rather than adequately preparing them to compete at the highest level.
SWAN emphasized that despite the substantial financial resources provided by the federal government, the necessary groundwork for a successful Olympic campaign was sorely lacking.
SWAN called for a complete restructuring of the Nigerian sports sector, stressing the need for professionals with genuine knowledge and passion to be at the helm. They noted that while sporting talent is abundant in Nigeria, the management of these talents has been severely deficient.
The Association urged the government to bring in business-minded individuals to revitalize the sector and provide opportunities for Nigerian youths.
Furthermore, SWAN called on the Sports Ministry to investigate and address previous administrative lapses at global competitions, particularly the mishandling of Favour Ofili’s participation in the 100m event. They insisted that resolving these issues is critical to the future development of Nigerian sports.
The Association also advocated for early preparations for the 2028 Olympics to avoid repeating past mistakes, stressing that Nigeria’s sports sector needs a breath of fresh air to achieve meaningful progress.
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