Rio Paralympics: Dalung counsels Team Nigeria athletes

THE Minister of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung has urged members of Team Nigeria to the 15th Paralympic Games scheduled to begin in Rio, Brazil on Thursday to compete fairly and be of good behaviour.

He made the appeal at a short ceremony held before the departure of the 23 athletes accompanied by 12 officials including medical personnel, helpers, loaders and team administrators, who have since landed in Brazil for the Games.

Six athletes will compete for honours in para-athletics, 14 in para-powerlifting while the remaining three athletes will compete in para-table tennis.

“I bring you warm greetings from the father of the nation President Muhammadu Buhari. Mr President sends his goodwill and  encouragement which is reduced to “Go and make Nigeria proud. I congratulate you on qualifying for the Paralympic Games at a time the country is undergoing trials. One thing that amazes me about you is your determination, commitment and patriotism. As you go for the games, compete fairly, honestly and give it your best.”

Dalung also urged the athletes to comport themselves and allow officials accompanying them to resolve any crisis that may arise.

“Whatever problems you may encounter, let us manage it very well. The idea of escalating our problems does not speak good of us as Nigerians. We at the ministry of Youth and Sports have resolved that any athlete who goes out to represent Nigeria, will receive his or her bonus directly. All allowances will be paid to you before the games end,” Dalung assured.

Responding, Captain of the team, Lucy Ejike thanked the Minister and the Permanent Secretary in the sports ministry, Christian Ohaa for making it possible for Team Nigeria to be at the Paralympic Games.

“I want to assure you that we will do our best. Whatever we special people do, we put in all our effort so we urge you not to panic. We thank you for getting us new Wheelchairs

and we are highly motivated as we ask you to watch out for us at the games”