Sports-loving Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu has charged athletes at the ongoing Athletic Federation of Nigerian trials in Benin to keep presenting Nigeria in good light.
During a visit to the stadium, the Deputy Governor commended the organizers for their hard work and insight in shaping athletics in the country.
“I am excited to see our top stars walking and running around the tartan track and competing healthily among themselves- a competition that will see many of them represent the country at the 2023 World Athletics championship scheduled for Budapest in Hungary, later in the year.”
“It was a delight watching the likes of the world record holder, Tobi Amusan who ran 12.70s to clinch her fourth consecutive Nigerian 100m Hurdles title. Ese Brume, Shot Put king, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, 100m fastest, Usheoritse Itsekiri who equalled his personal best of 10.02s, Favour Ashe, Enoch Adegoke and other burgeoning athletes vie for honours and places in Budapest.”
Shaibu who engaged world champion, Tobi Amusan in an exhibition 100m race expressed his delight over the athlete’s progress and her manner of representing the team in good light – charging her to put on the Naija Spirit in her subsequent competitions.
“I must commend the president of the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, my dear brother, Tonobok Okowa, the Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission, Comrade Yussuf Alli OLY and other officials of AFN for the smooth organization of this championship.”
Shaibu went on to charge the athletes to represent the country well in the World Championship, billed for Budapest in August.
“I want you all to keep the fire burning and I wish you all the best as you wrap things up on Saturday and continue preparation ahead of the journey to Budapest. As usual, I’m rooting for you to go and do us proud.”