The Nigeria Rowing Canoe and Sailing Federation (NRCSF) yesterday said the body had started preparation for the construction of canoes and kayaks in the country to enhance the development of the sport.
The federation’s Secretary, Mr Olubunmi Oluode, told newsmen in Lagos that the body had entered into a partnership with Nelo, a Portuguese company that manufactures kayaks and canoes for racing.
Oluode said the body was already constructing a workshop where experts from Nelo would train individuals on how to make local boats in Lekki.
“In February, four experts from a reputable boat company, Nelo will be in Nigeria to train some people on how to make canoes and kayaks for our athletes in February.
“This will aid the development of our sport and it will also reduce the cost of buying boats from outside the country.
“More states will have access to the locally made boats to develop the sports in their locality.
“All these have been made possible by the president of the federation, retired Rear-Adm. Festus Porbeni,” she said.
On the federation’s plan for the year, the secretary said the body had mapped out programmes to regularly engage its athletes in 2019.
She appealed to corporate bodies to complement the effort of the body in popularising the sport in the nation.