Edo Govt Splashes $10,000 to Boost Adegoke’s Tokyo Olympics Preparation

*Gusau pledges SUV gift to the NSF fastest sprinter if he wins gold

Adibe Emenyonuin

Edo State Government yesterday gave $10,000 to its ambassador and sprint sensation, Enoch Adegoke to support his preparations for the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan.

In a webinar virtual meeting, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, said the money was given to the sprinter to ensure there are no distractions in his preparation and quest for a podium finish at the Games.

Obaseki assured the sprinter that the state government would continue to support him in his future outings.

He said: “You can see how proud we are to identify with you. The funds we have approved for you is to ensure that your preparation does not suffer any distraction so that you can win a medal at the games.

“I can recall how hard you trained to qualify for the Games. You were dedicated to your craft and the whole Edo erupted in jubilation when you made the time that qualified you for the Olympics. You are indeed a worthy ambassador.

“We wish you well at the Games, which we believe will be a springboard for you. We want you to be level-headed, follow the rules and be clean (free from drug use).

“As a state government, we will continue to encourage you to give your best at all times. We are convinced that you will come home with a medal and you will get the needed luck on race days,” the governor added.

Responding, Adegoke thanked the Edo State Government for the gesture and stated that he is honoured and happy that good things would come from the support.

“I am happy to be part of this arrangement, it shows that the Edo State Government means well for me. The road to qualifications wasn’t easy. I thank the state government for the support and I promise to make the state and Nigeria proud.

“This will be the beginning of good things to come as Mr Yusuf Alli has lined up several races for me in the near future.”

Meanwhile, President of the last board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Shehu Ibrahim Gusau, has promised Adegoke a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV if he wins a gold medal at the Games which starts July 23 to August 8, 2021

Gusau said the gesture is his little way of motivating the athlete participating in the track and field events.