Nigeria’s Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung has re-assured Nigerians that the efforts of Nigerians competing at the Rio Olympics would not be in vain as he noted that “we’ll not leave Rio without medals.’’
According to Vanguard, the Minister who was speaking after Union Bank redeemed their pledge of N30 million donation to support the nation’s participation in the Rio Olympics said he was optimistic that Nigeria would still win medals in the remaining events at the Olympics.
The Minister while appreciating the efforts of Union Bank for throwing their weight behind Nigerian athletes said that he was convinced that Nigeria would not leave Rio empty handed.
‘’We’re grateful for your donation and we promise to ensure transparent management for you to do more’’ Yinka Kadejoh, Events and Sports Officer of Union Bank presented cards loaded with N250,000 to each of the athletes to be used anywhere in the world.
The short but impressive ceremony which happened at the secretariat of Team Nigeria at the Games village had such dignitaries as NOC President, Engr Habu Gumel, Engr. Sani Ndanusa, former President of NOC, Adolphus Joe Ekpe, Director General of National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Edward Fom, Deputy Chef de Mission, Bappa Aliu, Treasurer of NOC, Dr Daniel Igali, President of Wrestling Federation, Enitan Oshodi, President of Table Tennis Federation, NOC Scribe, Tunde Popoola and some group of athletes present.
NOC President, Gumel who thanked Union Bank also appreciated Team Nigeria for their efforts and urged those who are still in the hunt for medals to strive harder to ensure a podium appearance for Nigeria.
Vice Captain of team Nigeria, Funke Oshonaike in her response thanked Union Bank for their heart of Gold in remembering athletes and asked other corporate organisations to emulate the Bank’s gesture. Super Heavyweight boxer, Efe Ajagba who also received his card thanked the Bank.
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