Ogunkoya makes case for ‘suffering’ athletes

Olympics medalist Falilat Ogunkoya has bemoaned the standard of living of Nigerian athletes saying they are suffering even as they are serving their fatherland.

Ogunkoya who sent a save – our – soul (SOS) message on behalf of the athletes to the federal government said the athletes need urgent assistance from the government if they must reach the pinnacle of their career.

The ex-international who was at the Abuja National Stadium to witness the 2017 National Athletics Championship noted that Nigerian athletes, particularly those based in the country are suffering.

“Our athletes need support from both the government and private sector. We should support them in their training programmes. They need money to get themselves well prepared to represent the country,” she said.

She argued that athletes must eat balanced diet not any how food in order to avoid being trapped in banned drugs.

The former AFN board member also said Nigeria still have hope in the sport as many Nigerian athletes are doing well currently.

According to her, “Blessing Okagbare, Ese Brume, Tobi and many others can compete favourably against any athlete in the world and make their marks. Many of them have qualified for the world championship in London and I believe Nigeria can win medals in the championship.”

Ben Nwachukwu, Abuja