The Minister of Youth and Sports Barrister Solomon says the sports sector has witnessed tremendous improvement with strings of successes witnessed in different competitions in local, continental and international competitions.
The Minister made the assertion while congratulating Team Nigeria to the recently concluded Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi where the nation’s athletes won 64 medals.
He thanked them for hoisting the country’s flag in Abu Dhabi despite the financial challenges encountered by the team.
“Nigeria has never had it so good in sports but these successes are reaped from the individual efforts of athletes. If the ministry’s budgetary allocation is increased, we will be able to assist more sportsmen and women especially the special athletes. We hope that in future, government will invest more in its youths through sports”.
Team Nigeria took part in 8 events including Volleyball, athletics, badminton, Basketball, football, cycling, swimming and table tennis.
In another development Barrister Dalung has also urged the Super Eagles to intensify preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
While applauding the team for qualifying for the African tournament after being absent from two consecutive editions, the Minister assured the team of government’s support as it prepares for the Cup of Nations coming up in June.
“I congratulate you on your qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
“The next step is to begin intensive preparations by playing grade A friendly matches.
“This will give you the opportunity to look at your team technically with a view to improving upon your past performance,” Dalung said.
