The First Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Alhaji Abubakar Ladan Zurmi, has arrived in Accra, Ghana, ahead of the ongoing 24th African Senior Athletics Championships, expressing strong confidence in Team Nigeria’s ability to make the country proud on the continental stage.
Speaking shortly after his arrival at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, Zurmi praised the level of organization put in place by the Local Organising Committee and the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), describing the championship atmosphere as smooth, coordinated, and athlete-friendly.
According to him, Team Nigeria arrived in Ghana fully prepared for the task ahead, with both home-based and foreign-based athletes showing remarkable discipline, dedication, and commitment throughout their preparations.
“Team Nigeria has come prepared. Our athletes, both home-based and foreign-based, have shown discipline and commitment in training. I charge them to go out and make the nation proud with courage, focus, and the true spirit of sportsmanship,” Zurmi stated.
The AFN Vice President also commended the National Sports Commission for its continued support towards athlete welfare and adequate preparations for the championship, noting that such backing plays a major role in boosting athletes’ morale ahead of major international competitions.
He further appreciated members of the media for their role in promoting Nigerian athletics and keeping fans updated on the country’s performances at the championship in Accra.
Beyond the competition, Zurmi also took a moment to pay tribute to the late President of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), whose passing has thrown the African athletics family into mourning.
In an emotional condolence message delivered on behalf of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the entire Nigerian athletics community, he described the late CAA President as a committed leader whose contributions to athletics development across Africa would never be forgotten.
“It is with deep sorrow that I, on behalf of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the entire Nigerian athletics family, extend our heartfelt condolences to the Confederation of African Athletics, the family, and the athletics community across Africa on the passing of the CAA President.
“His leadership and dedication to the growth of athletics on the continent will be remembered. At this moment of grief, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the CAA. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he said.
The 24th African Senior Athletics Championships has continued to attract top athletes from across the continent, with Nigeria expected to challenge strongly for medals in several track and field events.
