The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engineer Habu Gumel, has assured Nigeria’s contingent to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, of the country’s full support as they prepare for the competition.

Gumel gave the assurance while receiving the handover of the Nigerian contingent in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27.

He expressed confidence in the athletes selected by the National Sports Commission (NSC), adding that Nigeria would build on its previous performances at the Youth Olympic Games.

The NOC president commended the chairman and Director General of the NSC for their efforts in preparing the athletes, particularly in the areas of training, welfare and kitting.

“Nigeria has been participating in the Youth Olympic Games since the beginning in Singapore, and we have been doing very well. I believe this time around we are going to do well,” Gumel said.

“I want to thank the Chairman and the Director General of the National Sports Commission for what they have done in training, welfare and kitting the athletes. I am so happy with this, and I am sure that by the time they arrive in Dakar, everybody will look at them well.”

He also assured the NSC leadership that the NOC would work closely with the commission to support the athletes and enable them to perform to the best of their abilities.

Gumel urged the young athletes to avoid doping and other forms of misconduct, stressing the importance of ensuring that Nigeria’s contingent remained clean throughout the competition.

He warned the athletes against allowing anyone to persuade them to engage in activities that could compromise their integrity or bring the country into disrepute.

“I want to assure you that we will take a clean contingent to Dakar and bring back a clean contingent to Nigeria again,” he said.

“The total number of the contingent that they have given us is the total number that will return to Nigeria. Nobody will disappear.

“Remain clean, behave well and make Nigeria proud. It is very, very important. The National Sports Commission and the Nigerian Olympic Committee are there to assist you in any area you need our support.”

The NOC president also welcomed the NSC’s announcement of cash rewards for athletes who win medals at the Games, describing the initiative as an important source of motivation for the young competitors.

He encouraged the athletes to view their participation in Dakar as a stepping stone towards future Olympic appearances, noting that they could eventually become members of the Olympian Association.

“By the time you return to Nigeria, consider yourselves already Olympians. You will call yourselves Olympians and join the Olympian Association. Participation is key and very important. You are going to be the future Olympians of this country,” Gumel said.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria would make a strong impression at the opening ceremony scheduled for October 31, particularly through the contingent’s outfit and march past.

Gumel praised the kitting provided for the athletes and wished them success at the Games, reiterating the NOC’s commitment to working with the NSC to support their welfare and participation in Dakar.