Team Nigeria’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics has been plagued by scandals. Despite Sports Minister Senator John Owan Enoh’s hopes for a smooth event, controversies have emerged, mirroring past Olympic challenges.
Historical issues include a sex scandal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and multiple doping scandals at Tokyo 2020, leading to athlete bans. The Tokyo Games also saw kitting controversies, with athletes wearing mismatched gear due to rejected PUMA jerseys.
In Paris, more troubles arose: Cynthia Ogunsemilore’s drug failure and expulsion, and Favour Ofili’s controversial omission from the 100m race, despite being a top contender. Nigeria’s early exits in boxing, badminton, and football highlight ongoing issues.
Minister Enoh faces the challenge of reforming Nigerian sports amidst these persistent problems.
Peoplesmind