The Minister of Sports Development, Senator Owan Enoh, has recently highlighted a significant issue regarding the payment of training allowances to Nigerian athletes competing in the Paris Olympics. According to Enoh, a disparity had existed between home-based and foreign-based athletes, with only the latter receiving their training allowances. This situation came to light after Enoh received numerous complaints from home-based athletes during an interactive session.
In response to these grievances, Enoh intervened to ensure that home-based athletes would receive the same training allowances as their foreign-based counterparts. This marks the first instance where home-based athletes representing Nigeria in international competitions have been given training allowances alongside their foreign-based peers.
Enoh took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that he had conducted a follow-up interactive session with the athletes at the games village in Paris. During this session, it was confirmed that home-based athletes had not previously received training grants, a benefit that had been exclusive to foreign-based athletes. Enoh emphasized that all athletes deserve equitable treatment, acknowledging their dedication and hard work.
He assured that all outstanding allowances due to the athletes participating in the 2024 Paris Olympics have now been disbursed. This includes training grants for both home-based and foreign-based athletes, in addition to other allowances. Enoh expressed his commitment to fair treatment and acknowledged the excitement and enthusiasm of the athletes, who are now better supported as they aim for podium finishes.
The intervention by Minister Enoh has been met with positive feedback from the athletes, who are now more motivated and appreciative of the support they are receiving.
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