Sports Development Anthony Asuquo, Head Coach of the Tony International Gymnastics Club (TIG), has urged the Federal Government and the Ministry of Sports to extend support for the advancement of gymnastics in Nigeria to achieve Olympic success.
Speaking with newsmen, Asuquo emphasized the club’s dedication to nurturing athletes who can excel on the global stage, particularly at the Olympics.
“Our athletes have the potential to win Olympic medals for Nigeria. Some should be competing at the Youth Olympics, but financial constraints are hindering their progress,” Asuquo said.
He highlighted challenges such as inadequate facilities, mentioning that equipment at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja is outdated, impacting training.
“At the recent National Youth Games in Asaba, several of our gymnasts sustained injuries but still pushed through to secure medals for their states. Despite TIG winning 13 out of the 16 medals available, the experience was challenging due to insufficient support,” he added.
Asuquo called on the government, stakeholders, and private individuals to invest in gymnastics as they do with other sports to enhance the sport’s growth.
Nigeria debuted in Olympic gymnastics at Tokyo 2020 with Uche Eke as the nation’s sole representative.
