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Buhari honours Nigerian athletes as Tobi Amusan Bags OON Award

President Muhammadu Buhari (middle) Confers National Honours on Nigerian Gold Medallist, Tobi Amusan, at the State House Photo: State House

*President Muhammadu Buhari tells the athletes ‘your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance’

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Track champion Tobi Amusan on Thursday bagged the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) award as President Muhammadu Buhari honoured the country’s athletes for their spectacular performances in several competitions.

The ceremony presided over by Buhari saw the Commander-in-Chief splash N200 million for Team Nigeria contingents to the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Athletics Championships.

The President also conferred national honours on them.

While addressing the athletes in the Banquet Hall of the State House, in Abuja, FCT, Buhari said his administration is committed to rewarding excellence, no less for members of Team Nigeria who ignited the spirit of victory in the West African country through stellar performances at international competitions.

Mr. Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, stated Buhari further told the athletes that “your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance.”

He described the athletes as champions, worthy ambassadors, national heroes, and heroines.

Buhari applauded them for proudly flying the Nigerian flag in nine sporting events.

The President stated: “I watched with millions of Nigerians those exciting moments when you all brought smiles to us and our homes by breaking world, national, and games records, as well as achieving personal best in your careers.

“You all, members of Team Nigeria, have ignited the spirit for victory in our nation but even more you have been victorious in major sporting championships and games.”

Buhari said: “I have followed keenly your achievements at the World Championships in Oregon, USA, and indeed, your remarkable performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

“And I am very pleased that you displayed at both the personal and group levels great sporting talents and delivered for your country great podium performances.”

According to him, the athletes’ hour of sporting glory beamed the “radar of the world on Nigeria.”

He remarked that their exploits have gone a long way in projecting the positive image of Nigeria.

“Twelve times the world stood still as our green-white-green national flag was hoisted and the National Anthem recited. “Thirty-five times we made it to the podium. You all Team Nigeria made that possible.

“You brought glory and honour to our country. And today, on behalf of the nation- I say, Thank You!”said Buhari.

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