Sport

We will improve on Tokyo 2020 performance – AFN President

By Web News 849

The President of Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa says the new board will improve on the lessons of the 2020 Olympics in Japan, as all is set for Team Nigeria to depart for Kenya for the World Athletics Under-20 Championships.

Chief Okowa stated this at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba while briefing newsmen on preparations for the forthcoming junior championships and prospects for medals in the East African country.

The AFN President said the athletes have completed their out of competition tests in Asaba, before their transfer to Abuja in readiness for their departure to Nairobi.

Regarding the performance of Team Nigerian at the Olympics, Chief Okowa attributed the dismal outing to challenges during preparations and gave the assurance that the new board under his leadership will aim to make thing right in Kenya.

On the disqualification of ten Nigerian athletes in Japan, the sports administrator noted some of the victims were among those who qualified for the World Junior Under-20 championships, while urging Nigerians to stop the blame game and to support the participants to emerge victorious.

Chief Okowa added that the athletes are currently having their COVID-19 vaccination before their imminent departure to Kenya for the Championships schedule to take place from August 17, to the 22 of this month.

Oghenero Eghweree

Sport

AFN Approves Ogbomoso Marathon Race

By Web News 1139

Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has approved the maiden edition of Ogbomoso land Marathon Race 2020.

The Federation, in a letter dated 16th of October,2020, signed by its Secretary General, Prince Adisa Beyioku appreciates the efforts of the planning committee in engaging youth in Athletics in Nigeria as this would increase the general fitness level and promote their health lifestyle.

However, in view of the raging coronavirus pandemic, it enjoined the committee to be guided by ‘Covid-19 Sports Code and Resumption protocol’ approved by the Federal Government as a condition precedent to organising any sports engagement and event in the Nigeria.

According to the Media and Publicity Secretary of the Ogbomoso Marathon organising committee, Yemi  Sodeeq, the committee was also charged to liase with the AFN for further details on the organisation of the Marathon.

Ogbomoso Marathon will hold in Ogbomoso on the Saturday 28th of next month,  where the Minister of Youth and Sports Development,Mr Sunday Dare is expected to flag off the race.

Reacting to the approval from AFN, the Chairman of the Planning committee, Prince Oyebamiji Aderemi expressed the readiness of the committee to host the marathon.

He assured all the athletes, spectators, dignitaries and officials who will grace the event of adequate security and exciting experience. 

The Race which will start from Oja Akandeand take marathoners through major roads in the ancient town will end at Soun Stadium in Ogbomoso. 

Olaolu Fawole