Sports
Obi Criticizes Nigeria’s Olympic Performance, Highlights Achievements of Nigerian Athletes Abroad
Following Nigeria’s underwhelming performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has addressed the broader implications of the country’s failures on the international stage.
Despite being Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria did not secure any medals, while nine other African countries achieved medal standings.
In a statement on Monday via X, Obi expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s performance but emphasized the achievements of Nigerian athletes who competed under different flags.
“While Nigeria, the giant of Africa, came away empty-handed with nine other African nations winning medals, our athletes made notable strides elsewhere, highlighting the underlying challenges we face,” Obi said.
He noted that four Nigerian athletes excelled at the Games for other countries: Yemisi Ogunleye won gold for Germany, Annette Echikunwoke, who faced setbacks in Nigeria, secured gold for the United States, and Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu, originally from Port Harcourt, earned silver medals for Bahrain after changing her nationality and religion.
Additionally, Rena Wakama, a Nigerian American and head coach of Nigeria’s female basketball team, the D’Tigress, was named the best coach for leading her team to the quarterfinals.
Obi pointed out the irony that these athletes succeeded because they were in environments where their talent was recognized and nurtured.
“At different times, Nigerians have shown that with the right environment and leadership, they can overcome obstacles,” Obi stated.
He urged that these successes should serve as a wake-up call about the detrimental effects of poor political leadership.
“This situation should prompt us to acknowledge that our current political leadership continues to hinder our progress until we address the corrupt system and build a new Nigeria,” Obi concluded.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated Morocco as the host for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League finals. The tournament will take place from November 9 to November 23, as announced on CAF’s official website.
Morocco previously hosted the last edition of this prestigious competition. Among the eight teams competing this year is Nigeria’s champions, Edo Queens. The current title holders are Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa.
The tournament offers significant financial incentives, with winners receiving $400,000 and runners-up taking home $250,000.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 10 international hat-tricks after scoring three times in a dominant 6-0 victory against Bolivia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
In addition to his goals, the 37-year-old forward also provided two assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. With this win, Argentina solidifies its position in the South American qualifiers, currently leading the table three points ahead of second-placed Colombia and six points clear of their arch-rivals Brazil.
On the same evening, Ronaldo’s Portugal faced Scotland in the UEFA Nations League but was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw, leaving the superstar visibly upset post-match.
Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, is reportedly planning a January transfer move for Barcelona forward Ansu Fati. After spending last season on loan at Brighton in the Premier League, Fati, now 21, returned to Barcelona but has struggled for game time under new coach Hansi Flick.
Once considered a potential successor to Lionel Messi, Fati’s limited opportunities at Barça have fueled speculation about a possible departure. According to *AS*, Mourinho is keen to bring the Spain international to the Turkish league, offering him the chance for regular football at Fenerbahce.
Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, is expected to initiate discussions with Fati’s representatives soon, confident that the promise of consistent playing time will help secure the forward’s move.
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