Peter Obi, politician and former presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, has shared important lessons for Nigeria following its poor performance at the recently concluded 2024 Paris Olympics.
In a series of tweets on Monday, the former Anambra State governor highlighted the need for Nigerians to address the underlying issues of poor political leadership that continue to hinder the nation’s progress.
While expressing disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to secure a single medal at the Olympics—an event where nine other African nations won medals—Obi pointed out that there were still some positive outcomes for Nigerians on the global stage. He noted that four Nigerians excelled in the Olympics because they operated in environments where talent is recognized and nurtured.
Obi highlighted the achievements of Yemisi Ogunleye, who won gold for Germany; Annette Echikunwoke, who secured gold for the United States; Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu, who won silver medals for Bahrain; and Rena Wakama, the Nigerian American head coach of Nigeria’s female basketball team, who was named the best coach at the Olympics for leading D’Tigress to the quarterfinals.
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“These accomplishments,” Obi said, “demonstrate that with the right environment and leadership, Nigerians can overcome any challenge.” He urged the nation to dismantle the corrupt political system and work towards establishing a “new Nigeria” that is capable of realizing its full potential.
The Nigerian team’s lackluster performance at the 2024 Olympics has sparked a commitment from the Sports Ministry to begin preparations immediately for the next Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.
The Ministry’s spokesperson, Kehinde Ajayi, assured that efforts are underway to restore Nigeria’s sporting glory, with a focus on turning the tides and proving Nigeria’s status as the giant of the black race.
