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Minister of Youths and Sports Solomon Dalung in a photograph
with the Nigerian contigent to the Rio Paralympic Olympic
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The 35 member contingent departed Abuja on Sept.1
A statement issued by Nneka Anibeze, Special Assistant, Media, to Solomon Dalung, Minister of Youth and Sports, said that the team promised to win medals for the country.
Twenty-three athletes will represent Nigeria in the games.
Six of the athletes will feature in Para- Athletes, 14 in Para-Powerlifiting, while three will take part in Para-Table tennis.
Twelve officials, including coaches, medical personnel, helpers, loaders and team administrators, accompanied the team.
Anibeze said that the minister had urged the team before its departure, to compete fairly and be of good behaviour at the games.
“I bring you warm greetings from the father of the nation, President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Mr President sends his goodwill and encouragement which is reduced to, “Go and make Nigeria proud.’’
“I congratulate you for qualifying for the games at a time the country is undergoing trials.
“One thing that amazes me about you is your determination, commitment and patriotism.
“As you go for the games, compete fairly, honestly and give it your best,’’ Dalung was quoted as saying during the departure ceremony.
The minister also urged the athletes to comfort themselves and allow officials accompanying them to resolve any crisis that may arise.
“Whatever problems you may encounter, let us manage it very well. The idea of escalating our problems does not speak well of us as Nigerians.
“We at the Ministry of Youth and Sports have resolved that any athlete, who goes out to represent Nigeria, will receive his or her bonus directly.
“All allowances will be paid to you before the games end,’’ Dalung said.
The Team Nigeria captain, Lucy Ejike, had thanked Dalung and the Permanent Secretary, for making it possible for the country to be at the games.
“I want to assure you that we will do our best. Whatever those of us, special people do, we put in all our efforts, so we urge you not to panic.
“We thank you for getting us new wheelchairs and we are highly motivated as we ask you to watch out for us at the games,’’ she said.
The games, which opens on Sept. 7, will be rounded off on Sept. 18.