President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed profound admiration for the unwavering dedication and achievements of Nigerian athletes across various sporting disciplines. Speaking during a meeting on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja, the president also celebrated the significant role played by Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, in transforming the country’s sports landscape.
Buhari Hails Sporting Achievements and National Pride
President Buhari lauded the commitment and performance of medal-winning athletes, acknowledging their role in promoting national unity and global recognition. He emphasized that their relentless efforts have continued to inspire millions of Nigerians, especially the youth.
He further highlighted Nigeria’s football legacy, notably the performances of the Super Eagles on global platforms, while also expressing lingering disappointment over the national team’s absence from the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Sunday Dare Recognized for Regional Sports Contributions
The president received Sunday Dare following his recent “Special Recognition Award for Contributions to Sports Development in Nigeria and the Africa Region” presented by President Mohammed Solih of the Maldives. Buhari commended Dare’s exemplary leadership and said the award brought pride not only to the minister but also to Nigeria as a whole.
He noted that the minister’s efforts had elevated sports from a purely recreational activity to a sector with viable economic impact and global competitiveness.
Infrastructure Revamp and Athlete Successes
Highlighting the minister’s tenure, President Buhari stated that Nigeria’s sports infrastructure has witnessed substantial revamping, leading to impressive results on the international stage.
He pointed to the increasing number of laurels won by Nigerian athletes and the improved unity within national sporting bodies as key indicators of progress under Sunday Dare’s leadership.
Government’s Role in Sports Development
The president acknowledged the critical role of government funding in the sector’s success, referencing consistent support and investment that has empowered athletes and federations.
He applauded the N200 million grant recently allocated to Team Nigeria for the Commonwealth Games, calling it an inspiration and testament to the government’s commitment to youth development and national pride.
A Message of Encouragement and Service
In closing, President Buhari urged Sunday Dare to continue his service with dedication, not just to the nation, but in the spirit of patriotism and accountability to God.
Minister’s Appreciation and Acknowledgment
In his remarks, Sunday Dare expressed gratitude for the president’s unwavering support and visionary leadership. He acknowledged that the backing from the presidency had made it possible to transform sports from a sidelined sector into a strategic pillar for youth empowerment, unity, and international acclaim.
