ABUJA, Nigeria – The House of Representatives on Wednesday announced the it would support the Nigeria’s 2024 Olympic/Paralympic Contingent at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games billed to take place in Paris, France with a donation of the sum of N100m.
The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu who presided over the plenary session in the absence of the Speaker, Tajudden Abbas, disclosed this when the House played host to the Minister of Sports, John Enoh who was in the green chamber to unveil Nigeria’s Olympics Sports kits.
Kalu also disclosed that the N100m which will come from the lawmakers’ earnings was in honour of Ekene Adams, the lawmaker who until his death on Tuesday, chaired the House Committee on Sports.
“The money is coming from our salaries,” he said.
In a brief speech read on behalf of the Speaker, Kalu charged the Nigerian contingent to do the nation proud in Paris.
“In honour of our late colleague, Hon Ekene Abubakar Adams, and our commitment to supporting our Olympians, the House of Representatives and all its members will make a personal contribution towards the success of the Olympics and to support our Nigerian athletes. Your journey to Paris is not just a quest for medals but a mission to elevate the spirit of our nation. I call on all well-meaning Nigerians to emulate this gesture of the House and support our athletes.
“We are confident in your abilities and are certain that the memories of this session will remain fresh in your minds, spurring you on to achieve record-breaking performances. Go to Paris with a clear mindset, dedication, and determination to surpass our previous records. We believe in you and know you will make us proud.
“As you embark on this significant journey, remember that you are ambassadors of Nigeria. Promote our national pride, values, and ethos in all your endeavours at the Olympics. The House stands in solidarity with you, praying for your success and wishing you the very best,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman, House Committee on Army, Balele Aminu donated the sum of $2m (N3m) to Team Nigeria.
Some of the Athletes who spoke during the session commended the lawmakers for the overwhelming support extended to the Team and promised to make the country proud throughout the sporting event.
