Edo State government on Monday advised its ambassador and sprint sensation, Enoch Adegoke who would be participating in the Tokyo Olympic Games in Japan to be level-headed, follow the rules, and be clean (free from drug use).
The state government gave the counsel at a webinar meeting where $10,000 was presented to Adegoke in support of his preparation for the Olympics.
Philip Shaibu, state deputy governor, who stood in for Governor Godwin Obaseki, explained that the money was given to ensure there were no distractions in his preparation and quest for a podium finish at the Games, which he believed would be a springboard for the sprinter.
Shaibu stated that as a state government, “we will continue to encourage you to give your best at all times. We are convinced that you will come home with a medal and you will get the needed luck on race days.
“You can see how proud we are to identify with you. The funds we have approved for you is to ensure that your preparation does not suffer any distractions so that you can win a medal at the games.
“I can recall how hard you trained to qualify for the Games. You were dedicated to your craft and the whole Edo erupted in jubilation when you made the time that qualified you for the Olympics. You are indeed a worthy ambassador”.
Assuring Adegoke of continued support in his future outings, Shaibu further advised him not to be under pressure “and be yourself and we are sure that with training and support, you will come back home with a medal”.
In his response, the elated Adegoke thanked the government for the gesture and expressed how honoured and happy he was that good things would come from the support.
According to him, “I am happy to be part of this arrangement. It shows that the Edo State Government means well for me. The road to qualification wasn’t easy. I thank the state government for the support and I promise to make the state and Nigeria proud.
“This will be the beginning of good things to come as Mr. Yusuf Alli has lined up several races for me in the near future”.
Also speaking, Alli, a one-time Team Nigeria skipper, commended Edo State for the gesture and called on other states to emulate the kind gesture.
President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, (AFN) Ibrahim Gusau, promised Adegoke a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) if he wins a medal.
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