President Jonathan Honours Africa's Fastest Woman, Blessing Okagbare
President
Goodluck Jonathan on September 11, 2013, Wednesday, honoured the
Olympic and the World Athletics Championship medalist, Blessing
Okagbare, for her brilliant performance at the recently concluded 2013
World Athletic Championship in Moscow.
While
commending the athlete’s performance during a brief ceremony held at
the Council Chamber of Aso Rock Presidential Villa President Jonathan
asked Nigerian youths, especially females to emulate Okagbare.
The
President who added that the athlete and her coach would be considered
for national honours also charged the ministry of sports to ensure that
Nigeria win more medals in future sporting events.
President Jonathan also promised that his administration will no longer treat issues related to sports and sportsmen with levity.
The
President announced cash gift of N3 million for Okagbare who was
accompanied to the occasion by the Governor of the home state (Delta),
Mr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.
The President also announced cash gift of N3.5m for her coach.
While
speaking at the occasion, Bolaji Abdullahi, the Minister of Sports
commended Delta State for the discovery of Okagbare and also
acknowledged the support of President Jonathan to sports development in
Nigeria.
While
speaking to journalists after the event, Uduaghan said the personal
recognition of the athlete’s efforts by the President will spur her for
greater achievements.
On
her part, Okagbare said there is no magic to sports and that with
continuous support, she will continue to win laurels for the country.
In Moscow Okagbare won the silver medal in the long jump and also placed third in the Women’s 200 m race in the Athletics Championship. The African record holder in 100 m race Okagbare unfortunately finished only 6th in the final run.
