Nigeria’s long jump record holder (8.27m) and Olympian, Yusuf Alli, has urged Team Nigeria athletes to maintain strong mental fortitude as they compete in the CAA U18/U20 African Championships in Abeokuta.
Speaking during the AFN’s unveiling ceremony for Team Nigeria athletes and kits, Alli stressed that the competition is a launching pad for future greatness.
“You are in this competition to make your mark and progress. Winning will come, but first, push yourself now to get to the next level—that’s how we all grew,” he said.
Alli, also a former Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, said the timing of the championship—coming shortly after the National Sports Festival and the US collegiate athletics season—puts the athletes in good stead for success.
Meanwhile, the 92 athletes who will represent Nigeria in the championships were officially unveiled at the ceremony in Abeokuta.
In his remarks, AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa encouraged the athletes to seize the opportunity to shine.
“We—AFN, the NSC, and the government—have provided a golden platform for you to succeed,” he said. “I charge you to go out there and make Nigeria proud.”
Other dignitaries present at the unveiling included: Dr. Aku, AFN Second Vice President; Gabriel Okon, AFN Technical Directorand Yusuf Alli, NSC Representative.
Team captains Temitope Ademola and Victor Clement were also formally introduced at the ceremony’s conclusion.