The House of Representatives on Wednesday announced the donation of N100 million to Nigeria’s 2024 Olympics and Paralympics contingent to the forthcoming Games billed for Paris, France.
Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the plenary, disclosed this when the House hosted the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, who was in the Green Chamber to unveil Team Nigeria’s Olympics and Paralympics kits.
Kalu disclosed that the N100 million, 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”, Kalu, who spoke on behald of the Speaker, stated.
“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 (athletes) 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”, Kalu added.
Similarly, the Chairman of House Committee on Army, Balele Aminu, donated the sum of $2,000 to Team Nigeria.
Some of the Athletes, who spoke during the session, commended the lawmakers for their overwhelming support for the team and promised to make the country proud throughout the sporting event.
The Olympic Games hold from 26 July to 11 August.
