Minister of Youth and Sports Development , Solomon Dalung
• ‘Corruption In Sports Chasing Away Sponsors’
The Mascot and Logo for the 2019 World Para Powerlifting Competition taking place in Lagos next year has been unveiled.The event took place alongside a fundraising dinner for the competition on Thursday at the Oriental Hotel Lagos.The Chief host and Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, noted that Nigeria’s special athletes had received more support from the federal government than most sports federations.
Dalung recalled that they were received by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016 shortly after he came into office.“We have given special athletes all the support they need since the inception of this administration. They were given special recognition and a Presidential handshake by His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016, while their monetary entitlements were also given to them. I have ensured that under my watch, all gold medalists received $5,000 each. I have also done that consistently with this team since I assumed office.”
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The Minister thanked the Lagos state government and other major sponsors for their support to the Para Powerlifting Federation, and called for transparency and accountability while dealing with the sponsors.“Sports cannot be driven by the federal government. The private sector has come into sports in Nigeria to collaborate with government. The fear of most sponsors is the endemic corruption in sports. You should account for every kobo donated to you by sponsors.
“The welfare of athletes is very important. I want to appeal to stakeholders, Captains of industries, business men, local and state governments to invest in sports and reduce security and unemployment challenges in the country”In his remarks, Governor Ambode reiterated his administration’s commitment to the smooth hosting of the 2019 International World Para Powerlifting Competition.
“We want to assure you that the funds will be well utilized and there will be accountability as well. We want to thank the athletes who ensured that the International Para Powerlifting Committee gave the hosting of this event to Nigeria.”
Ambode who was represented by the Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commision Dr. Kweku Tandoh, also assured that Lagos state would provide all the logistics including accommodation, facilities and transportation of all athletes and officials taking part in the competition.
Earlier, the President of the Para Powerlifting Federation Ms Queen Uboh, thanked all the sponsors and called on well meaning Nigerians to donate to the cause of the para powerlifting in the country.
Source: G Sport
