Nigerian athletics star Tobi Amusan will lead the nation’s delegation as the flagbearer during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Friday, July 26.
News About Nigeria reports that the announcement came from the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) in collaboration with the Sports Ministry.
Amusan, the current World Record holder in the 100m hurdles, is a strong medal contender for Nigeria in Paris, having narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Alongside Amusan, seasoned badminton player Anuoluwapo Opeyori has been selected as team captain.
Opeyori, who has represented Nigeria since 2017, boasts impressive credentials, including victories in the 2019 African Championships and Games singles events.
The 26-year-old also competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and his experience on the international stage will be invaluable in leading and motivating his fellow athletes in Paris.
Tony Nezianya, Press Attaché for Team Nigeria, stated that the strategic appointments by the NOC and Sports Ministry signal the nation’s high hopes for its athletes at the upcoming Olympic Games.
As the Games kick off this weekend, Nigeria will be represented by 88 athletes competing in 12 sports.
The contingent held its foreign training programme in Saarbrucken, Germany, while the football team camped in Spain.
This foreign training followed a period of domestic training, preparing athletes mentally, physically, and psychologically under conditions similar to those in Paris.
It’s important to know that in 17 Olympic appearances, Nigeria has won three gold medals, with 777 athletes participating since 1952. At the Paris 2024 Games, Team Nigeria hopes to increase their overall medal tally.
